Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 8 March 2026

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Intention for Subuh Prayer Performed Alone, Complete with Qunut Readings

The article outlines the intention and readings for Subuh (dawn) prayer, including the two rak'ahs and the qunut supplication, with transliterations and translations. It notes variations in practice within the Islamic tradition and highlights the spiritual significance of beginning the day with prayer.

Pramono Urges MTQ Selection in Jakarta to Start at RT Level, Not at Provincial Level

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung proposes that Musabaqah Tilawatil Qur'an (MTQ) selections begin at the RT (neighbourhood) level to promote Qur'an literacy from a young age. He links religious contests to mosques and will oversee a Betawi ulama haul at Monas in June 2026, underscoring Jakarta's emphasis on community-based religious activities and social harmony.

Mahfud MD Highlights the KPK Leadership's Authority to Name Suspects

Constitutional law professor Mahfud MD urged that the ongoing pre-trial in the 2024 Hajj quota case proceed strictly within legal norms, emphasising that KPK leadership does not have the authority to designate suspects. He also warned against conflating policy with criminal liability, stressing the need for careful interpretation of 'state losses' and the proper use of discretionary power in administrative law. The South Jakarta court is poised to rule on the pre-trial on 11 March.

UMB Strengthens Platforms for Student Creativity

Mercu Buana University's rector emphasises creating spaces for student growth as the institution opens the 2025-2026 second semester and expands student activity units in research, arts, sports, entrepreneurship, and leadership, in line with the Kampus Berdampak programme. The move aims to develop graduates who are academically capable but also socially conscious and ready to contribute to society.

Police Speak Out on Richard Lee's Condition in Detention, Right to Fasting and Suhoor Guaranteed

Police say Richard Lee's rights are being protected during detention, including the right to observe fasting and suhoor. Detention was justified by two grounds: failure to attend an additional examination and failure to report as required. He has been named a suspect in a consumer protection case involving beauty products, with multiple charges and penalties possible.

TransJakarta Kemayoran pedestrian overpass allegedly becomes a bed for the homeless

A video shows three people believed to be homeless sleeping on the wooden floor of the Kemayoran JPO in Central Jakarta. By 15:00 WIB there were no visible sleepers, and Transjakarta officers are gathering information about reported encampments at the site.

Officials Rescue Six Passengers After Engine Failure on Vessel Near Pulau Pari

Six passengers were evacuated after the KM Sinar Kencana Muara suffered an engine failure and took on water near Pulau Tikus, off Pulau Pari. Emergency responders brought all passengers ashore to Pulau Pari by 08:45 WIB; the incident was attributed to heavy rain, large waves and the vessel being overloaded.

President Prabowo Chairs Strategic Meetings in Hambalang to Discuss Education Issues and Geopolitics

President Prabowo Subianto chaired five limited meetings at his private Hambalang residence on 8 March 2026, focusing on education priorities, Middle East geopolitics, and preparations ahead of Eid al-Fitr. The discussions covered ten new STEM campuses and medical education, boosting public universities' global rankings and openness to international collaboration, Palestinian scholarships at the Universitas Pertahanan, and security for the Eid exodus.

Persib Bandung vs Persik Kediri: Thom Haye Confident They Can Beat the White Tigers

Thom Haye says Persib Bandung are in a strong run-up to their home Super League clash with Persik Kediri, insisting the squad are motivated to secure three points. He cites the 1-1 draw in the first meeting as a learning point and says the break has allowed tactical sharpening, with victory at home identified as the main objective.

Ministry of Tourism strengthens collaboration to prepare for UNESCO Global Geopark revalidation

Indonesia's Ministry of Tourism is expanding cooperation with geopark managers and other stakeholders to ready for the upcoming revalidation of Geoparks by UNESCO Global Geoparks Programme (UGGp). The government emphasises geoparks as ecosystems balancing conservation, education, community empowerment and sustainable tourism, and aims to reach 17 UNESCO Global Geoparks by 2029. A coordination meeting highlighted the plan and timelines.

Nuzulul Quran: A Momentum to Strengthen Faith and Expand Quran Mushaf Endowments

Medan's mayor uses the Nuzulul Quran commemorations to urge greater engagement with the Quran and Ramadan devotion, while Bogor authorities distribute thousands of mushaf as wakaf to mosques. The events highlight government support for religious practice and community cohesion, underscoring the Qur'anic emphasis on learning and reverence.

Child Struggling to Eat? Doctor Urges Evaluation of Feeding Rules Before Suspecting Illness

During a Health Corner in Jakarta, a paediatrician urged that feeding practices be assessed first before testing for secondary illnesses such as tuberculosis or anaemia in a child with poor appetite. The guidance, aligned with WHO's responsive feeding, emphasises regular meal schedules, a calm eating environment, and a non-coercive approach to support growth.

Overnight Rain Triggers Flooding at 18 Points in Bekasi City

Heavy rain overnight caused renewed flooding in Bekasi City, with the BPBD recording 18 flood points and one collapsed house across seven districts. Most inundations have now subsided, and authorities say they remain ready to evacuate residents and deploy pumps if necessary.

In Hambalang, Prabowo Brings Together Former Aides and Bodyguards From His Active Duty in the TNI

President Prabowo Subianto hosted a gathering at his private Hambalang residence in West Java for former aides and bodyguards who served with him in Kostrad and Kopassus, with some still active in the TNI and others retired and employed by his private company. The event, posted by the Presidential Secretariat on 8 March 2026, included anecdotes about his support for their career advancement.

Bekasi Regency Government Backs Subsidised High-Rise Flats for Low-Income Households

The Bekasi Regency Government has backed subsidised high-rise flats in Lippo Cikarang for low-income residents as part of President Prabowo Subianto's Three Million Homes Programme. Acting Regent Asep Surya Atmaja says the local authority will facilitate permitting and other technical steps through central–private collaboration, while the Housing and Settlements Minister calls for provincial and district backing to accelerate construction. The plan involves private-sector land donations and could yield around 140,000 apartment units on more than 30 hectares, underscoring the emphasis on legal certainty for buyers.

NASA and SpaceX Falcon 9 Launch CRS-24 Resupply Mission to the ISS

NASA's CRS-24 mission will use Northrop Grumman's Cygnus XL spacecraft, launched on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral to the International Space Station. The payload includes a quantum science module, stem cell production hardware, and other experiments, supporting both crew logistics and scientific research in low Earth orbit as part of Artemis preparations.

Casualties in Bantargebang Waste Processing Facility Landslide Rise to Four

A landslide at Bantargebang Integrated Waste Processing Facility in Bekasi, West Java, triggered by heavy rain, has left four people dead and two rescued, with others believed buried. Rescue teams using twenty excavators are continuing to search for missing victims as authorities update casualty numbers and warn of ongoing risks.

Minister demands accountability after landfill landslide kills four

After a Bantargebang landfill landslide killed four people, a minister demanded accountability and said the case would be pursued under Indonesia's Environmental Protection and Management Law No. 32/2009. The Bantargebang TPST is owned by the Jakarta Provincial Government and must be held responsible, with law enforcement summoning those accountable as the search for victims continues. Authorities are stabilising and reorganising the dumping zone to secure operations and prevent further slides.

Hajj Management Fund Could Enter Gold Investment to Mitigate US Dollar Fluctuations

Indonesia's Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has proposed that hajj management funds should consider investing in gold to hedge against currency risks, particularly depreciation against the US dollar. He noted that gold's long-term appreciation potential could help reduce the government's subsidy burden on hajj costs whilst also pointing to rising gold prices as a positive signal of improved public investment literacy.

Kiosk in Batubulan Burnt Out, Rp30 Million Losses

A kiosk in Batubulan, Gianyar, was burnt out in a fire that caused Rp30 million in losses. The blaze occurred at 8:00 p.m. local time and was extinguished within half an hour by the fire service; preliminary police findings point to an electrical short circuit after the building's PLN meter experienced disturbance. The incident is under police investigation.

Why Does Iftar Time Change Every Day? A Scientific Explanation

During Ramadan, the time to break the fast varies from day to day. This article explains that the shifts arise from the Earth's rotation and orbit, the Sun's changing position, and geographic differences, along with the Hijri lunar calendar and the Gregorian calendar. It discusses how these factors influence regional imsakiyah schedules and Ramadan timing across different areas.

PLN Reveals Cause of Bogor City Hall Power Outage

PLN is investigating a fault on the medium-voltage network (JTM) that cut power to Bogor City Hall. Four PLN teams are on site, and PLN is also checking substations fed from the same line; security around Balai Kota was heightened as the outage continued.

Mafindo: Public awareness is improving, but many remain trapped by hoaxes

Farid Zamroni M., head of Mafindo, notes growing public awareness of misinformation but warns that limited digital literacy and deliberate fabrications keep many trapped by hoaxes. He advocates verification steps and the use of fact-checking sites, and highlights disinformation aimed at Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi, clarifying false arrest and tax claims.

Polri Kakorlantas Checks Readiness of the Functional Japek II Selatan Toll Road Ahead of Ketupat 2026 Operation

Polri's Kakorlantas conducted a field check on the readiness of the Japek II Selatan functional toll road ahead of Lebaran 2026, confirming two repair points at KM 16 and KM 13 and outlining traffic-management measures at Bojongmangu and Setu. The tolled stretch from Sadang to Setu is expected to ease congestion on the return flow, while the Sadang–Bojongmangu segment can serve both outbound and inbound traffic, with diversion to Deltamas if needed. The plan includes traffic-monitoring technology and exit-control posts to distribute vehicles efficiently.

Prabowo Holds Five Meetings in Hambalang, Discusses the Middle East and Eid al-Fitr Homecoming

President Prabowo Subianto convened five separate meetings at his Hambalang residence with ministers from the Kabinet Merah Putih, focusing on STEM campus construction, university partnerships, Middle East developments, Palestinian students at the Defence University, and Eid al-Fitr homecoming. The discussions underscore Indonesia's educational expansion, international cooperation and Eid-related preparations ahead of the holiday.

Alleged Heartbreak Drives Tasikmalaya Youth to Attempt Suicide

In Tasikmalaya, a 22-year-old man identified by the initials MSH reportedly drank coffee laced with rat poison after a breakup. He was found collapsed by the roadside and taken to a clinic, with police launching an investigation into the incident as a suspected suicide attempt. The case highlights mental health concerns and the importance of timely support services.

12 Influencer Malaysia Diajak Promosikan Sisi Lain Labuan Bajo

Badan Pelaksana Otorita Labuan Bajo Flores (BPOLBF) menggandeng 12 influencer atau Key Opinion Leaders (KOL) asal Malaysia untuk mempromosikan destinasi wisata Labuan Bajo, Manggarai Barat, Nusa Tenggara Timur (NTT), ke pasar internasional. Promosi ini tidak hanya menyoroti wisata bahari di Taman Nasional Komodo, tetapi juga kekayaan budaya dan keindahan wisata darat Labuan Bajo.

LSAK Urges KY to Monitor Pre-Trial Proceedings Involving Former Religious Affairs Minister Against KPK

LSAK has urged the Judicial Commission to directly oversee the pre-trial proceedings of former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas against the KPK, as the case moves toward a ruling in the South Jakarta court. The dispute centers on the 2023-2024 Hajj quota and the associated losses, with critics warning that mishandling could disappoint Indonesian Muslim pilgrims.

IKN National Mosque to House a Library

The Directorate General of Guidance for the Islamic Community under the Ministry of Religious Affairs is collaborating with the National Library of Indonesia (Perpusnas) and the Nusantara Capital City Authority (OIKN) to establish a library at the IKN National Mosque, aiming to create a literacy and knowledge hub. The project involves initial needs such as furnishings, a 1,000 Qur’anic manuscripts, and a dedicated implementation team, with a formal decree pending and phased development before Ramadan 2026.

Fostering ties at Azzainiyyah Pesantren, Bahlil provides motivation to santri

Golkar chairman Bahlil Lahadalia addressed santri at the Azzainiyyah pesantren in Sukabumi during a Ramadan visit, sharing his humble beginnings and urging determination to overcome adversity. He stressed that background does not determine future success and praised Golkar for offering opportunities to all, regardless of ethnicity, religion or race, arguing it is uniquely open in Indonesian politics.

Prabowo Holds Marathon Meetings in Hambalang, Discusses Geopolitics and Eid al-Fitr Preparations

President Prabowo Subianto chaired five late‑day strategic meetings with ministers at his Hambalang residence, reviewing STEM campus expansion, medical education, and Indonesia's position amid global geopolitical shifts, particularly in the Middle East. The discussions also covered support for Palestinian students at the Defense University and preparations for Eid al-Fitr, with security and smooth travel as a priority.

Polri confirms case involving Nabilah O'Brien and Zendhy Kusuma ends in peaceful settlement

Polri confirms that mediation between Nabilah O'Brien and Zendhy Kusuma, conducted at the Bareskrim building in Jakarta, has resulted in a peaceful settlement. The parties signed a peace agreement, withdrew police reports, and agreed to delete related social media content, effectively closing the case under a peace mechanism during Ramadan. The dispute originated from a restaurant incident and a subsequent defamation complaint, drawing scrutiny from observers including DPR RI’s Commission III.

The Vital Role of the Strait of Hormuz in Global Energy Trade

The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow maritime chokepoint in the Persian Gulf, has been unilaterally closed by Iran, triggering a sharp decline in traffic and posing risks to global energy supplies. The closure affects roughly 20-30% of global crude oil and natural gas traffic, amounting to about 20 million barrels per day, with Indonesia weighing its policy response.

Iran's Foreign Minister: We will not surrender unconditionally, and we will continue to resist

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi rejects the US demand for unconditional surrender and vows continued self-defence and resistance as long as necessary, amid tension following US President Trump's remarks. He says there must be a permanent end to the war, and until then Iran will press on for its people's security and dignity, noting it is too early to discuss ceasefire terms.

Nothing Phone 4a Pro Officially Launched: Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 Specifications and Prices in Indonesia

Nothing has unveiled the Phone 4a Pro at a global event on 5 March 2026, introducing a new full-metal design, premium materials, and flagship-like performance aimed at the premium mid-range. The handset features a Glyph Matrix back, Snapdragon 7 Gen 4, a 6.83-inch 1.5K Flexible AMOLED with up to 144Hz, and IP65 protection, but omits wireless charging to preserve its slim metal body. Indonesian pricing is projected from the global launch, subject to distributor policies.

Former KPK Investigator Says Yaqut's Designation as a Suspect in the Hajj Case Was Weak from the Outset

Former KPK investigator Yudi Purnomo says the decision to name former Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas as a suspect in the alleged corruption over Hajj quota allocations for 2023-2024 was weak from the start. He argues the KPK should have named a suspect earlier and questions the practice of elevating the case from inquiry to investigation with a general investigation warrant without identifying a suspect. The case has featured disputes over the reported state losses and ongoing pre-trial hearings, with Yaqut challenging the process in court.

Chasing Lailatul Qadar: These are the recommended mosques for I'tikaf in Bandung

During the last ten nights of Ramadan, Bandung’s major mosques promote I'tikaf with facilities such as sahur, religious lectures, security, and parking. The piece highlights Masjid Al Lathief, Masjid Lautze 2 Bandung, Masjid Imtizaj, Masjid Raya Bandung, and others as popular I'tikaf venues, while urging worshippers to observe decorum and mosque rules.

13 Effects of Frequently Staying Up Late During Ramadan

Staying up late during fasting disrupts the body's circadian rhythm, causing daytime fatigue, impaired concentration, and a weaker immune system. The piece outlines a range of health risks—from headaches and mood changes to dehydration and reduced energy—and recommends practical steps to protect sleep during Ramadan.

Two-Metre-High Floodwaters Inundate Periuk Damai Housing Estate in Tangerang, Residents Evacuated

A two-metre-high flood struck the Periuk Damai housing estate in Tangerang, prompting evacuations by police and volunteers. The flooding was caused by the overflow of Kali Sabi after heavy rain on 7 March, with authorities and disaster-relief teams aiding residents.

KLH to summon Bantargebang Integrated Waste Processing Facility operator in response to waste landslide

Indonesia's Ministry of Environment and Forestry (KLH) says it will summon the Bantargebang TPST operator following a waste landslide that claimed four lives. The Deputy for Law Enforcement is investigating the operator, with the minister emphasising that the government must take responsibility as owner of Bantargebang in the DKJ. He noted that Law No. 32/2009 on Environmental Protection and Management carries penalties for actions that deliberately breach environmental standards and cause injury or death. Basarnas has confirmed four fatalities and the search continues.

Inaugurates New Office, Cak Imin Praises PKB's Rising Support in Jakarta

Abdul Muhaimin Iskandar formally inaugurated PKB DKI Jakarta's new office, praising the party's rising seat tally and emphasising the need for ongoing internal consolidation and public service improvements in Jakarta. He highlighted the theme 'PKB: Jakarta's Future' and commended Hasbiallah Ilyas' leadership as the party seeks to translate support into tangible governance.

Children of Bandung Barat landslide victims to receive aid under the Indonesia Pintar Programme

A West Bandung landslide in Pasirlangu triggered a push to secure education for affected children, with a DPR legislator distributing Indonesia Pintar Programme (PIP) assistance and urging data collection to widen KIP access. He highlighted schooling continuity and the need to protect orphans, while also addressing support for impacted horticultural farmers and concerns over land-use change driving disasters.

SAR team searches for nine crew members of capsized vessel in Bintan-Kepri waters

Twenty crew members were rescued after KM Makmur Jaya capsized off Pulau Merapas, with nine others still missing. Rescue teams from Batam and other agencies have been deployed to locate the missing crew and coordinate handover with the vessel's agent.

BPBD Ciamis Records 114 Homes Damaged by Extreme Weather

The BPBD in Ciamis Regency, West Java, reports 114 homes damaged by extreme weather, the majority of which are lightly damaged. Fourteen public facilities were also damaged across seven sub-districts and 23 villages, with authorities coordinating repairs and distributing urgent aid as residents are urged to stay vigilant against hydrometeorological hazards.

Officials recover body of teenager who drowned in Pademangan

Rescue teams recovered the body of a young person identified as HDS (10) who drowned while swimming in a canal in Pademangan Timur, North Jakarta. The operation involved two rescue units and local residents helping, and the body was taken to hospital for further processing.

Waste Heap at Bantargebang Collapses, Emergency Response Activated

The Jakarta Environment Agency activated an emergency response after a waste pile collapsed at Bantargebang TPST. Authorities deployed 13 excavators to clear the site, evacuated five of seven affected trucks, and are stabilising the area while suspending new waste deliveries until evacuation completes.

Perumda Pasar Jaya to Hold Prime Ramadan Bazaar at City Hall, Note the Dates

Perumda Pasar Jaya is organising a two-day Prime Ramadan Bazaar at City Hall in Central Jakarta, offering a range of goods at prices cheaper than the market ahead of Eid al-Fitr. The event includes a subsidised staple foods programme and is conducted in collaboration with the DKI Jakarta government and related BUMDs to assist residents during Ramadan.

KAI Daop 7 Madiun distributes CSR aid to orphans and the underprivileged

PT KAI (Persero) Daop 7 Madiun has channelled Rp37.5 million from its CSR and community development funds to Yayasan Abulyatama Indonesia Madiun for Yatim Fest 1447 Hijriah. The aid will take the form of Ramadhan and Eid al-Fitr packages for orphans and the underprivileged, with the event aiming to bring joy ahead of the holiday. The company says the initiative reflects its commitment to sustainable social impact and to balancing business operations with moral responsibility to the community.

Batang–Semarang Toll Rate Increases by Rp 33,000, Check the Details

Tariffs on the Batang–Semarang toll road have risen by around Rp 33,000 for Vehicle Class I, with the new rate standing at Rp 144,500 from Rp 111,500. The adjustment, effective 7 March 2026, follows Kepmen PU No. 18 KPTS/M/2026 and is described as a non-regular adjustment based on investment feasibility studies and the business plan, not inflation.

BGN Holds Technical Training for Food Handlers to Improve Service Quality

BGN held a two-day hybrid technical training for food handlers involved in the Free Nutritious Food Programme (MBG) and the acceleration of SLHS certification, staged across eight KPPGs with about 500 participants per day. The sessions aim to strengthen food hygiene and sanitation practices in SPPG kitchens and speed up SLHS issuance, a key part of MBG implementation. The event also emphasises capacity building for staff and partners and encourages public oversight via social media and a dedicated hotline.

Home Affairs Minister pushes for more equitable economic growth across all regencies and cities in the Riau Islands

Minister of Home Affairs Tito Karnavian has urged Kepri to spread economic growth beyond the main hubs of Bintan, Karimun and Batam to outer districts such as Natuna, Anambas, Lingga and Tanjungpinang. He notes uneven growth across regencies and cities despite Kepri's overall economic strength, while Kepri posted 7.89% growth in Q4 2025, with inflation controlled and poverty falling sharply; central government lauds collaborative efforts to boost growth and welfare.

Government and Danantara Begin Planning Low-Income Housing for MBR in Cikarang, West Java

The Indonesian government, through the Ministry of Public Housing and Settlement Areas (PKP) and the Badan Pengelola Investasi Daya Anagata Nusantara (Danantara Indonesia), has initiated early planning for low-income housing under the Three Million Homes Programme. The project involves high-level officials and major philanthropic figures and includes a potential land donation, with a separate collaboration to develop Cikarang International City (Cinity) featuring a hospital and international schools to expand affordable housing access.

Jakarta stabilises Bantargebang TPST area to prevent follow-up landslides

The Jakarta provincial government has begun stabilising the Bantargebang Integrated Waste Processing Facility area in Bekasi to avert further landslides after a collapse that killed four people. The operation prioritises safety and maintains waste transport to Jakarta, with one temporary disposal point opened at night and other points undergoing tidying. Authorities have asked Sudin LH offices to delay waste deliveries until the evacuation of victims is completed, as emergency measures stabilise the site and restore waste management services.

Tito Urges Regional Leaders Not to Travel Abroad During Lebaran Holiday Period

Tito Minta Kepala Daerah Tak ke Luar Negeri saat Periode Libur Lebaran Menteri Dalam Negeri (Mendagri) Muhammad Tito Karnavian menginstruksikan seluruh kepala daerah dan wakil kepala daerah untuk tetap berada dan siaga di daerah masing-masing selama periode satu minggu sebelum hingga satu minggu setelah Hari Raya Idulfitri 1447 Hijriah. Hal ini ini dilakukan untuk memastikan kelancaran penyelenggaraan pemerintahan daerah selama periode libur Lebaran.

Singapore Embassy hosts iftar for orphans at Istiqlal Mosque

The Singapore Embassy in Jakarta hosted an iftar for 70 orphans at Istiqlal Mosque, marking the third year of the event, with the theme 'Harmony of Ramadan: Sharing Compassion' reflecting friendship between Singapore and Indonesia and a commitment to harmony and sharing in Ramadan. The gathering was attended by Singapore's Ambassador to Indonesia, Kwok Fook Seng, and a Special Staff member representing Indonesia's Ministry of Religion, and included charitable Ramadan packages.

Situbondo Floods: Two Missing and Thousands of Homes Affected

Two people are missing after being swept away by floodwaters in Situbondo Regency, East Java, with thousands of homes across nine districts affected by flash floods and strong winds on Saturday night. River overflows caused flooding in six districts, including Banyuglugur and Besuki, affecting multiple villages. The local government raised the emergency status for post-disaster response on Sunday 8 March.

Indonesia–US ART Agreement: The Economy’s Competitiveness Must Be Strengthened

Experts say the 0% tariff under the RI–US ART offers a significant opportunity for Indonesian trade, but it is not a guarantee of higher exports. The real gains depend on domestic industrial competitiveness and targeted policy support across sectors, with risks of export decline and trade balance pressures under certain tariff scenarios. The consensus is that Indonesia must strengthen its industrial ecosystem—financing, logistics, and supply chains—to capitalise on market access.

Weekend at Hambalang: President Prabowo Chairs Five Meetings

President Prabowo Subianto chaired five separate, closed-door meetings at his private Hambalang residence in Bogor, West Java, on Sunday, 8 March 2026, addressing priority programmes in education, developments in the Middle East geopolitics, and preparations ahead of Eid al-Fitr in mid-March 2026. The discussions covered expanding STEM education, boosting university rankings and international collaborations, Middle East developments, Palestinian scholarship programmes at the Defence University (Unhan), and security and logistics for mudik ahead of Eid.

China Maintains Close Ties with African Countries

China's foreign minister Wang Yi says Beijing will maintain close ties with Africa, highlighting high-level visits, a zero-tariff regime on African products from May 2026, and the 2026 China–Africa Cultural Exchange Year. He stressed that trade liberalisation will spur growth and welfare, while reaffirming the long-standing China–Africa partnership and the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). Data show China has been Africa's leading trading partner, with imports from Africa totalling US$305.9 billion between 2021 and mid-2024.

Prabowo Reunites with Former Aides from His TNI Days 30 Years Ago

President Prabowo Subianto hosted a warm gathering with former aides and bodyguards who served him during his time in the TNI 30 years ago. The event, at his Hambalang residence in Bogor on 8 March 2026, included both active-duty and retired personnel, with some reportedly employed by his private company, and one participant noted that the President funded his son’s education and career prospects.

Indonesian students showcase Nusantara culture at Global Village Tunisia

Indonesian students showcased Saman dance, Nusantara cuisine, and batik at Global Village in Tunisia, organised by AIESEC, as part of cross-cultural exchange. The event drew international participants and Tunisian content creators, with officials emphasising cultural diplomacy and strengthened ties between Indonesia and Tunisia.

Japanese nationals evacuated from the Middle East amid Israel–Iran conflict

Japan's Foreign Ministry reported the evacuation of 13 Japanese nationals, including embassy staff in Iran, and one foreign family member, by bus from Tehran to Azerbaijan, with dozens more refugees arriving in Muscat and Riyadh as tensions in the Middle East escalate after a US-Israeli attack on Iran on 28 February. Iran's state television later reported the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and Iran's retaliatory missiles strikes at Israel and US targets in the region.

Two prayers for ease: Arabic, Latin, and their meanings

Two prayers for ease, drawn from Hadith and the Qur’an (Surah Ta-Ha), are presented with Arabic and Latin readings and English translations. The article explains their meaning within Islamic tawakkul, notes their use before exams or difficult tasks to promote calm and focus, and highlights the spiritual belief that only Allah can transform difficulties into ease. It also reminds believers of human limitations and reliance on Allah.

Waste landslide at Bantargebang due to prolonged heavy rainfall

A landslide at the Bantargebang Integrated Waste Processing Facility in Ciketing Udik, West Java, caused by prolonged heavy rainfall, has left several people dead and others evacuated. Initial estimates indicated ten people were buried, including five residents and five truck drivers; four died and two survived, with later updates confirming four fatalities and two survivors.

Foreign Ministry urges full investigation into Indonesian-crew tugboat Musaffah 2 after explosion and fire in the Strait of Hormuz

Indonesia's Foreign Ministry has called for a full investigation into the incident in the Strait of Hormuz involving the tugboat Musaffah 2 with Indonesian crew. Four Indonesian crew were aboard Musaffah 2 and one Indonesian technician was on the nearby container ship Safeen Prestige; one Indonesian crew member is injured and three are still missing, with UAE and Oman authorities coordinating with the vessel's operator.

East Java Deputy Governor Checks Kuro Floodgate to Ensure Pumps Operate Optimally

The East Java deputy governor and the Lamongan regent conducted a field inspection of the Kuro Floodgate amid concerns that water discharge pumps were not operating optimally in flood management for Lamongan. He announced ongoing activation of permanent and mobile pumps and discussed floodway capacity and future power arrangements to support flood control and drought resilience.

Study finds gender gap in Japanese politics persists

A group of experts released local gender-gap index scores across Japan's 47 prefectures on International Women's Day, showing limited progress in political gender equality. Tokyo remains the top prefecture for the fifth consecutive year, while the February House of Representatives election yielded only 14.6% female candidates, underscoring slow gains in political representation.

AirAsia Opens Route to Three Provinces, Targeting 67 Million Sulawesi Tourists

AirAsia launches its inaugural Surabaya–Makassar route as part of a broader expansion to improve Java–Sulawesi connectivity and link secondary cities to Kuala Lumpur. With BPS data showing over 67 million domestic tourist journeys to Sulawesi in 2025, the move aims to boost regional tourism, job creation, and economic activity across eastern Indonesia.

UMB Rector emphasises the importance of campuses providing space for students to grow

The Rector of Universitas Mercu Buana, Prof. Andi Adriansyah, urged universities to create spaces that allow students to grow and realise their potential across research, arts, sports, entrepreneurship and leadership, in line with the Kampus Berdampak programme. He emphasised that campuses should facilitate development beyond formal classrooms and foster social responsibility and leadership for wider community impact.

Foreign Minister: Iran rejects US demand for unconditional surrender

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi says Tehran will not accept the United States' demand for unconditional surrender and will continue to defend itself as long as necessary, insisting on the dignity of the nation and that it is not for sale. He also said it is too early to discuss ceasefire terms with the United States, and that there must be a permanent end to the war.

Report: Israel ready to strike Iran without US help

Israel told the US that it is prepared to attack Iran without American involvement, and sought Washington's formal approval for the operation. The events culminated in strikes on 28 February, a retaliatory Iranian response, and international reactions, including Russian condemnation.

Monitoring group: Internet outages in Iran enter second week

The NetBlocks monitoring group reports that Iran's nationwide internet blackout has entered its second week, with ongoing restrictions on the domestic network despite technical infrastructure remaining operational. The report also notes casualties and regional security concerns linked to US-Israel actions and potential implications for global energy supplies via the Strait of Hormuz.

Macron to visit Cyprus amid Middle East escalation

French President Emmanuel Macron is due to visit Cyprus on Monday, 9 March, more than a week after drone attacks targeted the UK’s Akrotiri base amid rising Middle East tensions, according to Le Figaro citing the Élysée Palace. Macron is expected to meet Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis to discuss security cooperation in the Cyprus and eastern Mediterranean to push for de-escalation. The trip follows additional Western troop deployments to Cyprus after the base attack, amid a broader exchange of strikes between the US and Israel and Iran earlier in February and Iran's retaliation.

PTPN PalmCo Keeps Minyakita Prices Aligned with HET Ahead of Idul Fitri

PTPN IV PalmCo, via its INL subsidiary, will sell Minyakita to distributors at about Rp13,439 per litre, below the government's Rp15,700 HET, aiming to stabilise prices from Ramadan through Idul Fitri 1447 H. The move follows government directives to curb price anomalies and bolster supply as PalmCo increases production to maintain Minyakita availability during peak Ramadan demand.

UGM expert: Measles case surge in Indonesia can still be controlled

A UGM child-health expert says the measles surge can be contained through intensified surveillance, rapid case management, and expanded vaccination coverage. The Health Ministry reported 8,224 suspected measles cases from 1 January to 23 February 2026, and authorities warn against declining vaccination and misinformation, since measles can lead to pneumonia or death and spread rapidly in enclosed spaces.

US plans to temporarily seize control of Iran's nuclear sites

Washington is weighing a contingency to temporarily seize control of selected Iranian nuclear facilities. The option, being developed by CENTCOM with Israel, could involve a potential US ground operation to seize and destroy major nuclear locations. The discussions come amid recent US-Israeli strikes in Iran and Tehran's retaliation, and are described as an option that is not usually publicly discussed.

Iranian security official claims US troops captured, Washington denies

Ali Larijani, Iran's top security official, alleges that several American soldiers have been captured, while Washington says none were taken. The US CENTCOM spokesman dismissed the claim as untrue, as regional tensions escalate after a US-Israeli attack on Iran on 28 February, with casualties reported including the Supreme Leader and other officials. The report notes Tehran's retaliatory actions and ongoing regional instability.

Wamendiktisaintek Urges Campuses to Strengthen Research and Community Service for Tangible Impact

The Indonesian Deputy Minister for Higher Education, Science, and Technology urged universities to strengthen research and community service to translate learning into real national development. He proposed forming a Bali-wide consortium of universities to boost collaboration, aligning academic activity with community needs and the job market as part of a broader push for 'impactful' campuses.

Garbage landslide at Bantargebang: death toll rises to 4

The death toll from the Bantargebang waste pile landslide has risen to four, with two survivors identified as Setiabudi and Johan. Authorities say several stalls and waste trucks remain buried, and more victims are feared as rescue operations continue at the TPST Bantargebang site in Bekasi.

Iran cuts fuel quota after US-Israel strike on oil depot

Iran has reduced the fuel-purchase quota on personal cards in Tehran from 30 litres to 20 litres following US-Israel strikes on oil depots. State television cited Tehran's governor's office, with the policy applying across Tehran Province. The move comes amid escalating regional tensions after a February 28 attack, with Iran retaliating through strikes on US bases and other targets.

Women’s Rights in Indonesia: A Different Path in the Muslim World

Indonesia, the world’s largest Muslim-majority country, pursues a distinctive path for women’s rights, with female literacy around 96% and 54% of women in the workforce, and women holding 21% of seats in parliament. It has seen women rise to top posts—Megawati Sukarnoputri as former president, Sri Mulyani as finance minister, and Retno Marsudi as foreign minister—supported by a moderate Islamic current under Pancasila and organisations like Nahdlatul Ulama and Muhammadiyah. The piece argues that religion, national identity and women’s participation can coexist, highlighting Indonesia as a counterpoint within the Muslim world.

Drowsy driver causes truck carrying Hebel blocks to crash into a warung and three motorbikes in Bogor

A truck loaded with Hebel blocks crashed into a roadside warung and three motorcycles in Bogor, allegedly after the driver fell asleep. The single-vehicle crash left the truck inverted, with no injuries and estimated material losses of around Rp 50 million.

Japanese Foreign Minister: Prime Minister Takaichi to convey stance on Iran to Trump

Japan's foreign Minister Motegi says Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is expected to convey Tokyo's position on the Iran-related conflict to U.S. President Donald Trump at their summit later this month. He also signalled a possible exchange of views with Trump in Washington on 19 March and expressed willingness to speak with Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi by phone. Motegi argued that halting Iran's nuclear programme, the attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz, and support for pro-Iranian armed groups would help Iran's prosperity and stability.

Drain-like Excavation on Rasuna Said Street Causes Taxi to Sink

A drainage-like excavation on Jalan HR Rasuna Said in South Jakarta, part of a revitalisation project, remains insufficiently barricaded, posing a hazard to motorists after a Bluebird taxi briefly sank into the hole. Locals warn the spacing of barriers is too wide, and a video of the incident circulated on social media.

BNPB provides two helicopters to support Riau's forest fire patrols

BNPB has stationed two patrol helicopters at Pekanbaru’s Roesmin Nurjadin Air Force Base to monitor forest and land-fire conditions across Riau, enabling rapid reporting and deployment of joint extinguishing teams. The Bell 206 B3 (PK-FPA) and Bell 206 L4 (PK-ZGK) complement earlier BNPB air operations, while 11 districts have recorded fires this year totalling about 1,161.64 hectares; fire risk remains moderate in some areas due to reduced rainfall. The agency is intensifying coordination with BPBDs to ensure rapid response and accurate impact data.

Village Chief Claims He Was Unaware of Underage Junior High Students' Wedding in Lombok Viral

A video of two junior high school pupils marrying in Lombok Tengah has circulated online, with local officials claiming they were unaware of the ceremony. The case highlights gaps in monitoring and socialisation on child marriage, despite warnings of penalties for parents who marry off underage children.

The Latest Iranian Drones and Missiles in 2026: Specifications, Advantages and Disadvantages

By 2026, Iran has built a diverse drone and missile arsenal, leveraging cheap platforms and hypersonic speed to deter conventional air defences. Tehran's self-sufficient military ecosystem—fostered under sanctions—emphasises speed and swarm tactics, while economic efficiency shapes the cost dynamics against interceptors such as Iron Dome and Patriot. The article highlights reverse-engineered components, domestic production, and potential cyber vulnerabilities.

Public Works Minister Inspects Sipoholon SPAM IKK, Residents Hope for Clean Water Supply

Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo visited the Tarutung Sipoholon SPAM IKK in Situmeang Habinsaran, Sipoholon, North Sumatra on Sunday, 8 March, as part of a ministerial drive in North Sumatra and Aceh to ensure infrastructure projects post-disaster. He announced plans for a new Water Treatment Plant with a capacity of 50 litres per second, alongside road-improvement and landslide-readiness measures, as residents express hope for better clean water services.

HKI: Fitch Debt Outlook Downgrade Is a Serious Signal - News En.tempo.co

HKI says Fitch’s negative debt outlook signals growing policy uncertainty that could raise capital costs and dampen industrial investment unless addressed with credible fiscal policy and regulatory stability. It warns that investor confidence in sectors like electronics, renewables and downstream manufacturing hinges on clear government commitments. The piece also notes government plans to justify fiscal policy ahead of IMF/World Bank meetings to reassure markets.

Bali Airport Operator Sets Up Nyepi Post and Lebaran Integrated Air Transport Post for 2026

Bali’s I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport has established a Nyepi Post alongside an Integrated Lebaran Air Transport Post to manage the overlap of Nyepi and Lebaran in 2026. The operator plans 18 days of 24-hour operations, mobilising around 2,900 personnel to handle about 1.1 million passengers and 6,700 aircraft movements, with airlines already filing requests for extra flights. Nyepi on 19 March will see movement pause for about 440 aircraft and roughly 65,000 potential daily passengers, while contingency measures and passenger-focused activities are prepared to ensure smooth operations.

UGM health expert urges public not to underestimate measles

A health expert from Gadjah Mada University has urged the public not to downplay measles as Indonesia grapples with more than 8,000 suspected cases and dozens of outbreaks this year. Ratni Indrawanti cites declining vaccination coverage, limited access to services, and misinformation as key drivers, calling for improved surveillance, rapid case management, and expanded immunisation. The health ministry warns that without action, measles could trigger serious outcomes and even become a public health emergency.

Iran's Stance Toward Neighbouring Countries Shaped by War Against Israel and the US

President Masoud Pezeshkian apologised to neighbouring states hosting US bases for attacks attributed to Iran, while insisting Tehran would respond to any aggression launched from those states. The remarks, aired on state television, come as the Middle East conflict enters its second week and underscore Tehran's willingness to strike back if attacks originate from neighbouring states, raising regional security concerns and impacting energy markets.

300 Free Mudik Quotas in Bogor City Fully Booked

All 300 free mudik quotas for Bogor City residents are fully booked, with departures scheduled for Monday 16 March 2026. The programme operates on two routes—North and South—utilising six buses. Officials say additional vehicles may be added if more applicants register, with the final numbers determined by the next wave of registrants.

Peace Reached: Nabilah O’Brien and Her Accuser Agree to Delete Mutually Attacking Content on Social Media

Social media influencer Nabilah O’Brien and her accuser Zendhy Kusuma have agreed to delete posts that attacked each other on social media after reaching a peace agreement. The mediation, overseen by police, involved four parties and included withdrawal of police reports as part of the settlement. Nabilah says she is no longer a suspect, and authorities note the case had previously involved charges under the Electronic Information and Transactions Law (UU ITE).

Minister presses for protection of child abuse victims' identities

Indonesia's Ministry of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection urged immediate reporting and removal of any content that could reveal a child's identity to prevent stigma, social pressure and long-term trauma. The stance follows allegations of sexual abuse of an eight-year-old girl in Asahan, North Sumatra, with the ministry coordinating with police and local governments to protect the victim's rights to support and recovery, while pursuing legal action against the accused. The case highlights the need for comprehensive care, including psychological counselling and legal assistance, beyond prosecution.

Ships Cannot Pass Through the Persian Gulf as Kuwait Cuts Oil Production

Kuwait has cut oil production and refinery output after tanker traffic could no longer pass through the Persian Gulf amid rising threats from Iran. The government describes the move as a precaution while security concerns are reassessed, with Kuwait Petroleum Corporation ready to restore production when conditions allow. The disruption compounds regional tensions and could lift global oil prices as storage capacity fills.

Eight Causes of Sudden Motorcycle Engine Stalling While Riding

Sudden engine stalls on a motorcycle can be caused by fuel supply issues, ignition problems, carburettor or fuel-injection faults, a weak battery, overheating, a dirty air filter, or loose wiring. Regular servicing and maintenance are essential to keep the vehicle safe to operate, and the article notes that water entering the engine is particularly dangerous. Sources cited include MPM Honda Jawa Timur and Suzuki.

To mark International Women's Day, protesters rally to voice civil rights issues

Protesters from the Simpul Puan Alliance gathered in Bandung on International Women's Day to demand that the government end militarisation of public life and military involvement in civilian policies, including food and social programs, and repeal policies and practices that criminalise citizens, activists, workers and women under KUHP and KUHAP.

BSI Distributes Donations to 5,000 Orphans

BSI and Danantara Indonesia carried out a nationwide charity drive to support 5,000 orphans and underprivileged children, centring on Aceh Tamiang as the main hub during Ramadan. The initiative included cooking kanji rumbi with local residents, waqf of Qurans to pesantren, and promotion of donations via the BYOND by BSI app, including Donasi Anak Yatim and Berbagi THR Yatim.

Joint Prayer and Humanitarian Reflection: Civil Society Urges Indonesia to Withdraw from the Board of Peace

On 7 March in Bandung, civil society figures convened a 'Joint Prayer and Humanitarian Reflection' to condemn the humanitarian crisis in Iran and to critique Indonesia's foreign policy, calling on the government to withdraw from the Board of Peace and to pursue a non-aligned, pro-justice stance. The event included calls to pressure the United States and Israel and announced plans to distribute tens of thousands of Al Quds bulletins to unite Muslims across sectarian lines and support Palestine.

Telkom Hosts GoZero% Innovation Festival to Drive Real Waste Management Solutions

Telkom organised the GoZero% Grand Champion Innovation Festival on 2–3 March 2026 at the Telkom Landmark Tower in Surabaya, as an ESG-based competition that mobilises Telkom staff across regions to develop innovative, practical and sustainable waste-management solutions. Forec (TREG III) was crowned winner for turning waste cables into construction and paving materials, with the event also featuring a GoZero% Eco-Deep Dive into Waste to Energy at PLTSA Benowo as part of a national sustainability agenda. The programme emphasises knowledge-sharing across regional units and aligns with Telkom's Save Our Planet and Empower Our People pillars.

Missing for Three Days, Fisherman from Sanur Found Dead Floating in Lombok Waters

After a three-day search, a fisherman from Sanur was found dead floating in the waters off Lombok. The body was recovered by SAR teams and his family have been informed, with repatriation to Bali expected. The disappearance occurred while he was at sea near Nusa Penida, with Basarnas Bali coordinating the operation.

Housing Task Force Receives 30-Hectare Land Grant for the 3 Million Homes Program

Indonesia's housing backlog remains substantial, with government data indicating around 9 to 15 million families without a home and 27 million households living in substandard housing. The 30-hectare land grant will support the 3 Million Homes Program in Cikarang, potentially delivering around 140,000 vertical housing units for low-income households, as part of a broader effort to spur growth and welfare.

A retrospective on the resurgence of retro jerseys

Retro football jerseys have resurged as a fashion trend beyond football fans, driven by bloc-core aesthetics. Major brands such as Adidas and Nike are reissuing iconic designs, turning jersey sales into a lucrative revenue stream for clubs. Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Paris Saint-Germain topped 2025 sales, underscoring the growing convergence of football and fashion.

Five People Still Buried in Waste Landslide at Bantargebang TPST as of Sunday Night

At the Bantargebang Integrated Waste Processing Facility in Bekasi, a waste landslide left ten people affected: five garbage truck drivers and five residents. As of Sunday night, three have been confirmed dead and two rescued and receiving treatment, while five others remain buried beneath the debris. The incident also damaged several vehicles and a nearby stall, and search-and-rescue operations by a joint team are ongoing.

Gold Investment Interest Rises as BSI Bullion Customers Soar by 400 Percent

Gold investment demand in Indonesia is rising amid global economic uncertainty, with BSI reporting a more than 400% surge in its bullion bank customers since its February 2025 launch. The bank emphasises a syariah-compliant, accessible ecosystem for gold products, attracting younger investors and expanding its total gold assets.

Green Public Procurement and the Transformation of Indonesia's Green Steel Industry

An opinion piece arguing that Green Public Procurement (GPP) could catalyse the transformation of Indonesia’s green steel sector. It highlights the steel industry's significant contribution to CO2 emissions and trade, notes that green steel carries a premium price, and outlines Indonesian regulatory steps (Presidential Regulations 16/2018 and 12/2021; LKPP Decision 157/2024) while acknowledging implementation hurdles. The author proposes policy actions to strengthen GPP and foster a domestic market for green steel.

When Business Risk Is Criminalised

An Indonesian state-owned enterprise chief turns away from a multi-million-dollar investment proposal after fearing that potential losses to the state could trigger criminal proceedings, illustrating how weak institutions can stifle innovation. The piece contrasts a burdensome multi-ministry approval regime with Norway's streamlined approach and champions the Danantara Indonesia holding as a path to greater efficiency, arguing that institutional quality, not size, drives competitiveness. It draws on ideas from Why Nations Fail and Good to Great to argue that inclusive institutions foster progress.

Flooding Hits Several Areas of Tangerang as Police Move to Evacuate Residents

Floodwaters inundated parts of Tangerang City as police and security forces coordinate evacuation efforts. Officials established a disaster-response post, managed traffic, and arranged food and health services for flood-affected residents in collaboration with the TNI and local government. Authorities said personnel would remain on the ground until waters recede and normalcy returns.

Paguyangan Landslide in Brebes Cuts Road Access; Local Government Plans Relocation

Persistent rain in southern Brebes caused a landslide on the Cilibu-Langkap road in Paguyangan, halting traffic for about 50 metres. A second landslide damaged the school’s sanitary block and raised fears of further slides, but no casualties were reported. The Brebes government, with provincial support, is relocating the route to the east to restore access while prioritising public safety, including protection of nearby educational facilities.

Sunday night: Bogor City Hall plunged into darkness as power outage hits

Power outages hit Bogor City Hall on Sunday night, with lights out across the main building and the Secretariat. City Secretary Denny Mulyadi said PLN has been contacted to investigate the cause and security guards were instructed to heighten vigilance; by around 9:30 pm WIB the building remained dark.

Madeena Quran Launches Lumee, a Box That Can Safeguard Women's Mental Health

Madeena Quran unveiled Lumee, an experience box designed to help women cultivate personal moments of spiritual reflection rooted in the Qur’an. The Bandung launch event blended product release with inspirational talks, workshops and discussions, emphasising mental well-being and spiritual guidance as living tools for daily life. The project frames the Qur’an as a source of calm and guidance, prioritising outreach and social benefit over profit as measures of success.

OJK forecasts financing disbursement to rise ahead of Eid al-Fitr

Indonesia's financial services watchdog OJK expects financing disbursement to increase ahead of Eid al-Fitr 1447 AH, driven by Ramadan demand and seasonal SME working capital. It notes historical growth across pawnbroking, multifinance and online lending, with March 2024 and 2025 data showing continued expansion and manageable NPF, while warning of digital competition and emphasising stronger credit scoring and borrower verification to maintain healthy growth.

Global Sevilla to Host Sanlat 2026, Strengthening Students' Character Education

Global Sevilla School in Jakarta will host its 2026 Sanlat (Pesantren Kilat) on 7–8 March 2026 during Ramadan, focusing on fasting with purpose and character formation. The programme engages students from kindergarten to senior high, combining worship, learning, reflection and interactive activities, and is backed by teachers, parents and the school's advisory board. The event underscores the school's emphasis on character education alongside academic achievement and community engagement.

Private Funding Drives the Gorontalo Half Marathon's Success and Tourism Promotion

Governor Gusnar Ismail announced that the Gorontalo Half Marathon (GHM) in 2026 will be funded by private sector partners, with full backing from the Ministry of Investment and Hilirisasi/BKPM, to advance sport and tourism in the region. The arrangement aims to ease the local government budget burden while expanding collaboration with the private sector, and positions GHM as a national-scale event that could boost Gorontalo's tourism and economy.

Ground movement occurs in Lokapaksa, Buleleng, four homes affected

Ground movement was detected in Banjar Dinas Sorga, Lokapaksa, Bali, damaging four homes. BPBD Buleleng is coordinating with IAGI, BMKG and Undiksha to investigate; preliminary findings point to ancient weathered soil from Mount Jembrana that is highly sensitive to water, with no seismic activity detected. Further geoelectric testing and community preparedness outreach are planned.

When 14 Indonesian Economy Ministers Resigned En Masse

In May 1998, during the Asian financial crisis, 14 ministers—most from the economic sector—resigned simultaneously, signalling a collapse in elite confidence in President Suharto. Led by Ginandjar Kartasasmita, the mass resignation foreshadowed Suharto's departure and profoundly reshaped Indonesia's political crisis.

Tour Leader Academy by Hobiholidays Launches 100-Hour Training to Prepare Professional Tourism Professionals

Hobiholidays has launched the Tour Leader Academy, a 100-hour intensive programme designed to train professional tour leaders in Indonesia. The first intake quickly filled, attracting applicants from diverse backgrounds; March 2026 classes offer weekend and weekday options, with top graduates potentially employed by Hobiholidays as the company aims to lift the national tourism workforce.

Zendhy Kusuma Reveals Why He Entered the Kitchen at Bibi Kelinci Restaurant and Lost His Temper

Guitarist Zendhy Kusuma explains why he entered the kitchen of Bibi Kelinci restaurant in September 2025 to check whether his long-awaited order was being prepared. After a lengthy wait and conflicting information from staff, he entered the kitchen and CCTV footage shows him and his wife shouting at workers and striking a fridge before leaving with the order; a waiter later attempted to collect payment in the car.

Governor: Ukrainian missile attack disrupts energy supplies in Belgorod

Belgorod city and the Belgorod district were subjected to large-scale Ukrainian missile strikes, causing serious damage to energy infrastructure and disrupting electricity, water, and heating supplies. Initial reports indicated no casualties, with a fuller damage assessment expected at midday and emergency services deployed to the scene as updates continue.

Situbondo Regency Government Sets Up Communal Kitchen After Flash Floods

The Situbondo Regency government in East Java has established a public kitchen in response to flash floods that damaged thousands of homes and public facilities. The kitchen operates at the Besuki District Office, serving thousands of residents across Besuki and Banyuglugur districts; authorities plan to open another kitchen in Banyuglugur to meet demand as assessments continue.

Withdrawn Reports as Couple Allegedly Steal Food; Nabilah O'Brien Reaches Amicable Settlement

The Indonesian police reported that a married couple and restaurant owner Nabilah O'Brien have reached an amicable settlement after mediation, with all parties withdrawing their police reports and agreeing to remove related posts from social media. The case, initially involving alleged food theft at a Kemang restaurant, involved both suspects and the restaurant owner, but mediation led to the closure of the dispute.

The Urgency of National Unity for the Success of Prabowo's Administration

The article argues that national unity remains vital for the success of President Prabowo Subianto's development agenda, emphasising constructive civic engagement, responsible use of social media, and broad public support for government programmes. It underlines that unity does not erase differences but requires mature dialogue and inclusive participation from civil society to sustain democracy and stability.

SIWO PWI Pusat Condemns Journalists’ Intimidation at Malut United vs PSM Makassar Match, Prepared to Report to the National Police Chief

SIWO PWI Pusat condemned intimidation of reporters covering the BRI Super League game between Malut United and PSM Makassar at Gelora Kie Raha Stadium in Ternate. The incident, occurring around 23:05 WIT after the match, involved an individual believed to be an official of Malut United who confronted a journalist, coercing him to delete footage. SIWO said it would report the case to the National Police Chief and push for stringent sanctions against the official.

BSI records total gold under management at 22.5 tonnes

BSI has recorded 22.5 tonnes of gold under management as of now, within a year of launching its bullion bank service. The initiative expanded access to gold holdings and attracted new customers, with Gen Z accounting for 32% of gold customers. 2025 results show strong growth, with assets at Rp456 trillion and DPK Rp380 trillion, and bullion banking projected to be a key growth engine.

Iran Begins Using New-Generation Missiles on Sunday, Targeting Tel Aviv and Jordan's Al-Azraq Air Base

Iran's IRGC deployed a new generation of Kheibar missiles in the 28th wave of Operation Loyal Promise 4, reportedly striking Bir al-Sabe’ and Tel Aviv and hitting the Al-Azraq Air Base in Jordan. Tehran warned that the scale of attacks would intensify in hours and days ahead, while asserting readiness to press the war and promising a decisive victory for Iran and its people.

Ramadan Iftar and Charitable Giving at Sumber Barokah Pesantren with Orphans and Local Residents

At the Sumber Barokah Pesantren in Karawang, a Ramadan iftar and distribution of aid to orphans and the local poor drew praise from regional security and government leaders and various religious figures. The pesantren reported distributing around 500 Ramadan packages of basic foods with pocket money each year to those in need, as part of ongoing community outreach ahead of Ramadan 1447 H, with remarks emphasising unity and social care.

Making Peace with Zendhy, Nabilah O’Brien Admits She Is No Longer a Suspect in UU ITE Case

Nabilah O’Brien says she is no longer a suspect after a mediation with guitarist Zendhy Kusuma at Mabes Polri, Jakarta. The parties withdrew their reports and agreed to remove social media content; the mediation followed police review of two reports and involved four parties signing a peace agreement.

Awaiting Yaqut Cholil Qoumas' Pretrial Ruling: How Likely Is the Former Minister of Religious Affairs to Win Against the KPK?

The South Jakarta District Court is due to rule on Yaqut Cholil Qoumas's pretrial challenge to the KPK over his status as a suspect in the 2023-2024 haj quota corruption case. His legal team argues procedural flaws under the new KUHAP and questions the sufficiency of the state losses audit, with the decision potentially deciding whether charges proceed or are dismissed. The ruling could determine whether the case continues or is halted.

Iran Claims It Can Wage an Intensified War for Six Months Amid Conflict with the U.S.–Israel

Iran's envoy to the IRGC says the Islamic Republic could sustain an intensified war for at least six months at the current pace, with missiles, cruise missiles, drones and attack ships in readiness. The claim follows US-Israel strikes on Iran and Tehran's retaliation, amid broader international reactions including a claim of the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and Russia's call for de-escalation.

Measuring Welfare in Setting the Nisab for Zakat and Wage Policy

Policy debate on the 2026 minimum wage should account for real living costs, not just inflation and nominal pay. The article argues for linking the minimum living standard (KHL) with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) to reflect actual costs of living, and to reassess the zakat nisab which may be out of step with workers’ real earnings.

Home Affairs Minister Orders Regional Heads and Deputy Regional Heads to Stand By in Their Regions One Week Before and One Week After Eid al-Fitr

The Indonesian Minister of Home Affairs, Tito Karnavian, has issued a circular directing all regional heads and their deputies to remain in their jurisdictions and be on standby from one week before to one week after Eid al-Fitr 1447 H. The move aims to ensure smooth local governance during Lebaran and includes postponing overseas travel during the period; the circular enumerates four strategic steps, starting with anticipating security risks and strengthening coordination with Forkopimda.

Batam Weather Cloudy, Afternoon Light Rain Could Disrupt Sea Activities

Weather in Batam is forecast to be overcast with a risk of light rain in the afternoon, potentially affecting maritime activities such as inter-island shipping, fishing, and port operations. BMKG cautions that conditions can change quickly and urges the public to monitor official forecasts. Separately, forecasts warn of high waves in parts of NTT in early to mid-March, underscoring the broader need for caution in sea travel.

14 Facebook Lite Features You Probably Didn't Know

Facebook Lite is a lightweight version of Meta's Facebook app designed for low-spec smartphones and slow connections, offering data-efficient performance. This article lists 14 features—from low data usage and 2G compatibility to messaging without Messenger, customisable notifications, and rapid page loading—highlighting Lite's balance of speed and functionality.

Instagram Star Nabilah O’Brien and Zhendy Kusuma Reach Settlement After Police Mediation

Two Indonesian social media figures, Nabilah O’Brien and guitarist Zhendy Kusuma, have settled their dispute following mediation by the Indonesian National Police’s Investigation Supervision Bureau. They withdrew all police reports, agreed to remove related posts from their social media accounts, and pledged to resolve the matter amicably, though it remains unclear whether their prior suspect status will be automatically dropped. The case originally involved Nabilah facing defamation charges over CCTV footage from her restaurant, with her lawyer seeking a special review by Wassidik.

Ramadan Across 70 Lippo Malls Brings Culture and Bazaars

Lippo Malls Indonesia launches a Ramadan program, A Season of Harmony, across 70 malls in 18 provinces and 37 cities, combining spiritual, cultural, and community activities with extensive bazaars to support local economies and the creative economy. The programme features a range of cultural performances, family activities, and Ramadan shopping events.

Latest Police Update on Richard Lee's Detention

Metro Jaya Police have detained Dr Richard Lee in connection with alleged breaches of consumer protection and cosmetics product regulations. A Jakarta Selatan District Court rejected his pretrial bid to overturn the detention, and authorities say his rights are being respected while in custody. He was detained at 21:50 WIB, questioned for four hours, and has not requested a detention deferral, with police citing absences from mandatory reports and a TikTok live as factors.

Danantara prepares Rp16 trillion to build housing on Lippo Group donated land

Danantara Indonesia is lining up a budget of up to Rp16 trillion to support vertical housing on Lippo Group–donated land. The 12.8 hectares planned site will be expanded to 18 towers (32 storeys), on land comprising about 30 hectares donated by James Riady for 140,000 affordable homes for low-income households. The project, aligned with the government's 3 Million Homes Programme, will involve state-owned enterprises and private contractors; the Ministry of Housing and Settlement Areas and Danantara will advance a concept, pricing framework, and eligibility for MBR purchases.

Home Affairs Minister Urges Regional Leaders to Stay On-Standby in Their Regions During Lebaran Holiday

Indonesian Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has ordered all regional heads and deputy heads to remain in their jurisdictions and on standby during the Lebaran period. The circular suspends non-essential foreign travel from 14 to 28 March 2026, with exceptions for essential presidential-directed activities or medical needs, aiming to ensure smooth local governance, security, and economic management during Eid al-Fitr.

Food outlets spotted by Mr. Cardamom content creator in New York

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, known as the YouTube content creator Mr. Cardamom, has visited six modest eateries in densely populated neighbourhoods across the United States. The piece highlights his food-centred moments and includes visits to Kabab King, Pye Boat Noodle, Urban Vegan Roots, Laliguras Bistro, and halal carts, alongside a Dominican bakery associated with his signing of an executive order to aid small businesses.

Indonesia and the Dilemma of a Crisis Amid Abundant Energy

An opinion piece analysing how Indonesia, despite vast energy resources, remains exposed to energy crises due to import dependence, coal export orientation, governance challenges for renewables, and infrastructure gaps. It argues that true energy wealth lies in sovereignty and calls for policy coherence and stronger energy self-reliance.

Cak Imin Urges State- and BUMN-owned Public Spaces to Reserve 30 Percent for MSMEs

Indonesian Coordinating Minister for People’s Empowerment Muhaimin Iskandar (Cak Imin) calls for at least 30% of public facilities owned by the state or state-owned enterprises to be set aside for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The proposal, announced at the Jejak Jajanan Nusantara festival, underscores collaboration between BUMNs, the central government, and small producers to boost the domestic economy and reduce import dependence.

Jakarta Provincial Government activates emergency response operations to tackle landslide at Bantargebang TPST

The DKI Jakarta provincial government has activated emergency response operations following a landslide at Bantargebang Integrated Waste Processing Facility, prioritising the safety of personnel and the evacuation of vehicles, and coordinating cross-agency support. Three people died and one was injured, with compensation and medical costs to be borne by the local authorities; 13 excavators and two ambulances are assisting in the operation.

Prabowo Subianto gathers former aides and bodyguards from Kostrad-Kopassus era

President Prabowo Subianto hosted a gathering with his former aides and bodyguards who served alongside him in Kostrad and Kopassus, or during his active service in the Indonesian Armed Forces around 30 years ago, at his private residence in Hambalang, Bogor Regency, West Java. Some attendees remain active as soldiers, while others have retired and now work for companies owned by the President. The event was described as nostalgic and demonstrates the President's attention to those who accompanied him in military service; it was posted on the Cabinet Secretariat's official social media on Sunday night and drew thousands of positive online reactions.

Tehran’s Sky Turns Red After US–Israel Bombard Tehran Oil Depot

The United States and Israel struck oil storage depots and refinery facilities in Tehran, sparking a major blaze visible across the capital. Israel says it is responsible, claiming the targets were oil facilities tied to Iran’s armed forces; Iran’s government media described it as the first reported strike on the country’s oil infrastructure. The attack also hit another depot in north‑west Tehran.

Site visit to the three-million-unit MBR housing project in Cikarang

A high-profile site visit in Cikarang saw Danantara's Rosan Roeslani and ministerial and business leaders review plans to build three million MBR homes on a 30-hectare site. The project, a presidential priority for MBR housing, underscores public-private collaboration to deliver low-cost housing in West Java.

Residents Experience Doomsday as a 100-Metre Tsunami Strikes Ambon

Rumphius's eyewitness notes in Herbarium Amboinense record the 1674 Ambon disaster as the earliest tsunami in the Nusantara region, with a tsunami height estimated at 100 metres. Contemporary analysis, including a BMKG webinar, attributes part of the devastation to coastal landslides triggered by the earthquake, highlighting the enduring tsunami hazard in Indonesia.

Busy mother selling, 2-year-old boy goes missing in East Lombok while playing

Two-year-old Muhammad Rapip Saki from Sembalun Lawang, East Lombok, went missing while playing near his home. Police and SAR teams are sweeping a river and bamboo groves within metres of the house; the mother had been busy selling when he disappeared. The incident underscores concerns about child safety and the need for vigilant supervision of toddlers outdoors.

Nabilah O’Brien and Her Accuser Reach a Peace Agreement; Police Reports Withdrawn

Nabilah O’Brien, an Instagram influencer, and her accuser Zendhy Kusuma have settled a defamation case that was being handled by the police, with both parties withdrawing their police reports. They also agreed to delete related social media posts, following mediation at the Indonesian National Police Headquarters. The police expect the settlement to deliver justice and reconciliation, particularly during Ramadan.

Surabaya Imsak Schedule 9 March 2026: Preparations for the Final 10 Days of Ramadan

The article provides official Imsakiyah and Subuh timings for Surabaya on Monday 9 March 2026, marking Ramadan day 19 in the 1447H cycle, and explains sahur timing and local time differences near the city boundary. It cites data from the Directorate General of Guidance for Islamic Community (Bimas Islam) under the Ministry of Religious Affairs and encourages readers to follow updates on prayer times and Ramadan health tips via Media Indonesia.

Consul-General Emphasises the Importance of the Holi Festival in Strengthening Indonesia–India Ties

Indian Consul-General in Bali emphasises Holi as a key avenue for deepening Indonesia–India cultural ties. The Festival of Colours, marking spring and celebrating unity, draws participants from Indian expatriates, tourists, students, diaspora and locals, with Bali tourism already showing strong growth from India.

Fitch's Debt Outlook Downgrade Becomes a Serious Signal

Indonesia's Industrial Estate Association (HKI) says Fitch Ratings' downgrade of the country's debt outlook from stable to negative is a serious warning to the government, signalling rising policy uncertainty in global markets. The association warns that without concrete corrective steps, investment, project financing costs and investor confidence could be affected, risking the momentum of industrialisation.

Bad Weather Halts Inter-Island Ferry Services in East Nusa Tenggara

Bad weather has paralysed inter-island ferry services in East Nusa Tenggara since 2 March 2026, with only the Kupang–Hansisi route operating as of 8 March. Several routes remain closed due to high waves in the Sawu Sea, while BMKG warns that wave heights could reach up to 2.9 metres between 8–14 March, prompting caution for sea and air travel.

Police say influencer Nabilah O'Brien and Zendhy have both withdrawn their police reports

Police at the National Police Headquarters said influencer and Bibi Kelinci restaurant owner Nabilah O'Brien and guitarist Zendhy Kusuma, along with his wife Evi Santi, have withdrawn their police reports after a mediation. Both sides also agreed to delete related social media posts; the two cases involve an alleged theft at the restaurant and a separate CCTV post, with proceedings continuing and questions over whether withdrawals affect legal status.

iQOO 16 may feature a 200 MP main camera

Leaks suggest that the iQOO 16 is testing with a 200 MP main camera and a 50 MP periscope telephoto, with a display upgrade to 2K. The device is expected to run the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 with a large battery, and price could rise above Rp10 million in line with these upgrades.

Legislator urges Indonesian govt to prepare roadmap for rice exports

A legislator in Jakarta urged the government to develop a roadmap for expanding rice exports, arguing that reducing production costs and improving quality are essential to competing with regional rivals. He highlighted West Sumatra's Sawah Pokok Murah low-cost farming method, which reportedly achieves similar yields without soil processing, chemical fertilizers, pesticides, or fungicides, and can withstand dry weather. He also warned that the high proportion of broken rice in SPHP programmes—between 25 and 40%—needs BRIN-backed research, or risk hampering Indonesia's food self-sufficiency goals and its ability to access the global market.

Final Warning Letters Issued For Demolition Of Glass Elevator Project In Top Bali Tourist Hotspot

Bali Governor Wayan Koster ordered PT Indonesia Kaishi Tourism Property Investment Development Group to halt construction of the Nusa Penida Glass Elevator and demolish the structure within six months, with site restoration to follow within three months. The company has warned of legal action, accusing the government of mismanagement over permits as authorities issue a second warning and monitor progress ahead of the deadline. The project, reportedly valued at IDR 200 billion (about USD 15.5 million), has faced ongoing controversy and construction violations since approval.

Iranian Attacks on Gulf States Target Kuwait Airport and Bahrain Desalination Plant

Iran launched a renewed strike on Gulf infrastructure, attacking fuel tanks at Kuwait International Air- port and damaging a desalination plant in Bahrain as its missile and drone campaign against neighbouring states continued into a second week. The sprint of regional responses saw Gulf governments reporting damage, casualties, and heightened security, while Tehran signalled retaliatory intent amid shifting regional tensions.

Hashim: Three-Million-Homes Programme to Drive 8% Economic Growth

Hashim Djojohadikusumo says the 3 million homes programme is designed not only to provide housing but also to act as a major driver of national growth toward 8%. He highlights a large multiplier effect for housing—about 1.5 to 2% of GDP—and notes around 185 related sectors that would benefit from expanded housing activity.

Nazaruddin-Formed Party Focuses on Socialisation and Supports Prabowo's Programme Down to Village Level

The Nazaruddin-founded Partai Rakyat Indonesia (PRI) hosted an iftar gathering and charity event for around 1,000 recipients in Central Jakarta during Ramadan, emphasising its social welfare work and commitment to backing government programmes, including those of President Prabowo Subianto. The party plans to socialise and support government initiatives down to the village level and seeks significant political backing in Jakarta's DKI region, aiming for about 50 percent of the vote.

Bantargebang Waste Heap Collapses as Trucks Queue to Offload

A waste heap collapse at Bantargebang TPST in Bekasi trapped people as trucks queued to unload. Ten people were affected—five truck drivers and five locals/scavengers—with three drivers evacuated alive and one dead; two drivers remain missing. The incident damaged a nearby stall and several vehicles, and rescue teams continued searching into the night.

New Tourist Attraction at Lake Batur, Kintamani, Offers Pedal Boat Riding

At Lake Batur's new attraction, Batur Aqua Ride, visitors can enjoy pedal boat riding with options for single and tandem craft. Local tickets are Rp 100,000 per person for one hour, while foreigners pay Rp 550,000 plus Rp 10,000 for a guide; the facility operates from 08:00 to 16:00 Wita daily, weather permitting, with safety gear provided.

Relax as You Ride a Water Bike at Batur Aqua Ride

A new tourist attraction, Batur Aqua Ride, has opened at Lake Batur in Kintamani, Bangli, offering single and tandem water bikes for visitors. Local tickets cost Rp 100,000 per person for one hour, with foreigners paying Rp 550,000 plus Rp 10,000 for a guide; the operator emphasises safety and weather rules as wind can affect the ride.

Pegadaian Gold Sales Jump 191 Per Cent at the Start of 2026

Pegadaian reports a 191 per cent year-on-year rise in gold sales by 28 February 2026, with approximately 7.2 tonnes sold in January–February 2026, up from around 2.5 tonnes in the same period in 2025. Growth is driven by two main products, tabungan emas and cicilan emas batangan, as demand for physical gold remains high for long-term investment; the lender is building the Indonesia Bullion Ecosystem with around 141 tonnes under management.

The Collapse of the Salim Business Empire After Three Decades of Prosperity

The piece traces how the Salim Group rose to prominence over three decades with stakes in banking, construction, and food, and how the 1998 crisis and anti-Chinese riots shattered the empire. It highlights Sudono Salim’s ties to the Soeharto regime and how public anger made him a target, leading to widespread destruction of assets including Bank Central Asia and Indofood operations.

Police: Coffee Powder Found on the Skeleton of Woman Found in Depok

Police found the body of a 56-year-old woman, DH, in skeletal condition in Meruyung, Limo, Depok, with coffee powder scattered on her body. Investigators say the victim lived with a common-law husband whose whereabouts are unknown, and witnesses reported domestic disputes. Missing items include a Suzuki Address motorcycle (plate B-6613-ZME) with its keys and STNK, and a mobile phone; the body was found by the victim’s child and her partner on 7 March around 09:00 WIB.

Zendhy Kusuma Explains Why He Did Not Pay for Food at Bibi Kelinci and Left Immediately

Indonesian guitarist Zendhy Kusuma has explained why he and companions left the Bibi Kelinci restaurant in Kemang, South Jakarta, without paying for 11 meals and three drinks on 19 September 2025. He says he wanted to resolve the issue by meeting the person in charge, but left in an emotional state after nearly two hours of delay. He later sought to settle the bill and even sent the same payment amount again on 20 October 2025, though access to the manager remained blocked.

Russia Confirms It Is On Iran's Side, Signals It Could Provide Military Aid If Requested

Russia’s ambassador to the UK has stated that Moscow is not neutral and backs Iran in the conflict, describing Tehran as a neighbour and ally and expressing sympathy for Gulf states affected by the war. He said Russia would provide military assistance if Iran formally requests it, though Tehran has not yet asked; the comments come as Iran asserts it can continue fighting with its own resources.

Semarang–Batang Toll Road Tariffs Increase from 7 March 2026, See Details

The Semarang–Batang toll road tariffs have been officially adjusted, effective from 00:00 on 7 March 2026, following government decree No. 18 KPTS/M/2026. Tariffs rise for all vehicle categories, with Category I up to Rp 144,500, Category II–III to Rp 216,500, and Categories IV–V to Rp 289,000, representing about 29–30% increase. The adjustments are based on feasibility studies rather than inflation, and the operator emphasises commitment to service quality and safety improvements while urging motorists to check fuel and e-money balance before travel.

BGN strengthens hygiene and food safety standards for the MBG program through technical guidance

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) is bolstering hygiene and food safety standards for the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) program through a two‑day technical guidance on Food Handlers and the Laik Higiene Sanitasi (SLHS) certificate. Held in Malang on 7–8 March 2026 with 500 participants per day, the event engages 25,000 SPPG kitchens nationwide to ensure safe, nutritious meals for Indonesian children.

Jakarta deploys 1,200 pumps to speed up flooding response

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung announced that 1,200 pumps—668 stationary across 243 locations and 536 mobile—are being deployed to speed flood response, with ongoing pumping at sites including Daan Mogot Road. He cited rainfall in Jakarta and surrounding areas reaching 264 millimetres, urging residents to follow official weather information. In the medium term, the government is advancing river normalization on the Ciliwung, Cakung Lama, and Krukut rivers, with completion of the Cakung Lama project targeted for 2027 to reduce flood risks; BPBD data show 74 neighbourhood units flooded and 15 road sections inundated, with water levels from 15 cm to 1.2 m.

Tehran in Flames as Oil Depots and Refinery Hit by Israeli Air Strikes

Israeli forces say they launched a significant strike against Iran's fuel infrastructure in Tehran, hitting Aqdasieh depot and other facilities in western Tehran, with reports of hits across three sites. Iran's Oil Ministry and state media offered differing accounts, with ILNA saying Tehran's refinery was not damaged. The attack underscores escalating tensions over Iran's energy infrastructure and broader regional security concerns.

Iran–US–Israel Latest: Tehran Intensifies as 3 Indonesian Nationals Missing, Conflict Widens

The escalating confrontation between Iran, the US and Israel unfolds across the region, with the IRGC claiming a new wave of missiles toward Tel Aviv, Beersheva and Jordanian air bases, while Israeli strikes in Lebanon kill hundreds and Indonesian seafarers are reported missing. The conflict expands through the region with evacuations, drone incidents and political defiance, alongside market reactions to the instability.

Ancol teams up with PPJI and Dompet Dhuafa to aid 2,000 orphans

PT Pembangunan Jaya Ancol Tbk, via the Yayasan Baiturrahman Jaya Ancol (YBJA), has partnered with PPJI and Dompet Dhuafa to provide aid to 2,000 orphans from across Jakarta and its environs during Ramadhan. The event, Santunan Ramadhan 1447 Hijriah under the Ramadan Meriah Penuh Berkah (REMEMBER) banner, attracted about 2,800 participants including volunteers and guests and featured an edutainment format. The initiative demonstrates the company’s ongoing CSR and social welfare engagement in Jakarta.

IRGC: Iran Able to Conduct Intensive Combat Operations for Six Months

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps asserts that its armed forces could sustain intensive combat for at least six months at the current pace. The statement follows US-Israeli strikes on Iran and intra-regional exchanges, and claims Tehran’s military hardware and longer-range missiles are ready for a large-scale, protracted conflict.

Ahead of Nyepi, Bramasta Bali Swamped with Hampers Orders Reaching 3,000 Packages

Bramasta Bali, a Bali-based crafts and ceremonial supplies firm, says orders for hampers ahead of Nyepi have surged, with demand arriving as early as two months before the festival and reaching thousands of packages. Corporate and government clients predominate, while individual orders grow in the week or two before Nyepi; prices range from Rp100,000 to Rp2,000,000 per unit, with production backed by local artisans. The firm also serves Galungan, Kuningan and New Year, and says turnover can rise by around 200% during the festive period.

Three Die in Bantargebang Waste Mountain Landslide: Truck Driver and Shop Owners

Three people were killed in a landslide at Bantargebang's Integrated Waste Disposal Facility in Bekasi, West Java. The victims were a truck driver and two shop owners, identified as Enda Widayanti, Sumine, and Dedi Sutrisno. The bodies were sent to funeral homes in Banten and Karawang; the incident occurred in Zone 4 of Bantargebang TPST on Sunday afternoon as trucks and workers were at the site.

Semarang Mayor Commemorates Nuzul al-Qur'an with Local Residents

The Mayor of Semarang attended a city-level Nuzul al-Qur'an commemoration held as part of the Ramadan Safari, joining the city’s Forkopimda leadership, the Deputy Mayor, religious figures and residents. She urged the community to reflect on Qur'anic values of wisdom, justice and compassion, highlighted the city’s disaster-response efforts, and announced Qur'an donations to support children's Qur'anic learning, ahead of Semarang hosting the 31st National MTQ in September.

ITB: Water filter technology helps recover baby with diarrhoea in Aceh Tamiang

A collaboration between ITB and Paragon Corp has deployed a mobile water purification system to aid disaster-affected communities in Aceh Tamiang. The technology has contributed to the recovery of a local baby suffering from chronic diarrhoea, with around 1,200 residents now relying on the system for access to clean water.

Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr, Bank Mandiri Prepares Rp 4.58 Trillion in Cash in West Java

Bank Mandiri has allocated Rp 4.58 trillion in cash for ATM/CRM replenishment in West Java from 24 February to 25 March 2026 to meet expected surge in transactions during Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr. The amount is about 5% higher year-on-year than a year earlier, with daily cash fill needs estimated at Rp 120–130 million on average. The bank also says all electronic channels will operate optimally during Eid and has 1,194 ATM/CRM units and 16,209 EDCs, plus Livin’ by Mandiri and up to 1.1 million Mandiri e-money cards stocked.

Abdul Mu’ti's Message at Ikat Event: Make the Qur’an a Guide for Life and a Driver of Intelligence

Abdul Mu’ti urged Muslims to study the Qur’an’s meanings as a compass for life during a Tausiyah at Ikat's Teladan Mengaji & Berbagi, emphasising that Ramadan fasting should cultivate piety and generosity. He linked Qur’anic education to Indonesia’s youth and the 2045 vision, and voiced support for Komdigi’s policy restricting under-16s' social media use, noting donations to 250 orphans during the event.

Five-Metre Flood in Periuk Damai Residential Estate, Tangerang Leaves 9,752 People Affected

A flood up to five metres high inundated the Periuk Damai Residential Estate in Tangerang, affecting 9,752 people across five kelurahan and 3,337 households. Authorities reported 25 flood points and 18 evacuation posts, with about 8,500 residents displaced; relief is being sought amid Ramadan, as breaching and overflow from nearby water bodies aggravated the disaster.

China's Population Is Aging, the World Must Be Wary

China is facing a rapidly ageing population, with fertility rates dipping below the replacement level and a growing share of citizens aged 80 and over. Despite pro-natalist measures, the authorities have struggled to reverse the trend, and projections suggest nearly 40% of the population could be aged 60 or older by 2100, with potential impacts on labour supply, pension funds, and long-term growth.

Cak Imin: The President's Global Diplomacy to Open Access for Gaza Humanitarian Aid

Muhaimin Iskandar, known as Cak Imin, says President Prabowo's global diplomacy seeks to widen Indonesia's humanitarian aid access to Gaza via the Board of Peace and bilateral/multilateral channels, so aid can reach recipients more effectively. He warns that aid to Gaza is often cut or blocked, with only around 30% reaching the destination, underscoring the need for new entry points. The diplomacy also serves Indonesia's national economic interests by protecting domestic industry and keeping international trade advantageous, including continued exports to the United States.

Pope Leo XIV Prays for an End to the US-Israel Bombardment and for Iran to Cease

Pope Leo XIV has urged an immediate end to the US-Israel air strikes on Iran, calling for a pause in military action to allow space for dialogue. He warned the conflict could fuel hatred and fear across the region and threaten neighbouring Lebanon with renewed instability. The Pope's appeal comes as Tehran remains tense amid ongoing strikes, while US policy contemplates troops and the international community seeks a path to diplomacy.

Three dead in waste landslide at Bantargebang Integrated Waste Processing Facility

Three people died after a waste landslide buried trucks and stalls at the Bantargebang Integrated Waste Processing Facility in Bekasi. Authorities say two women and one man were killed; a search-and-rescue operation is ongoing as responders assess the scene following heavy rain. The incident underscores safety risks at major waste-handling sites amid severe weather.

Home Affairs Minister Urges Regional Leaders to Be On Standby During Eid al-Fitr

Indonesia's Minister of Home Affairs, Muhammad Tito Karnavian, has ordered all regional heads and their deputies to stay on duty in their jurisdictions for one week before and one week after the Eid al-Fitr celebrations of 1447 AH, to ensure smooth local governance during Lebaran. The directive, issued via Circular SE 000.2.3/1171/SJ dated 8 March 2026, restricts travel abroad except for highly essential reasons and aims to keep leaders available to respond to public needs.

Home Affairs Minister Praises KURMA as a Platform for Empowering MSMEs in Kepri

Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian lauds KURMA 2026 as a platform for empowering MSMEs in Kepri, highlighting the sector's role as a national economic backbone and its resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic. The event runs 2-8 March 2026 across Batam and Tanjungpinang, showcasing local creative economy products, Ramadan competitions, Islamic finance education, and the GPM programme, in a collaborative effort to bolster Kepri's economy and halal tourism.

Zendhy Kusuma Claims He Paid for Food at Bibi Kelinci Twice, Total Rp1.1 Million

Guitarist Zendhy Kusuma says he twice transferred payment for a meal at the Bibi Kelinci restaurant, after first paying Rp550,000 on 27 September 2025 and then again on 20 October 2025, for a total of Rp1.1 million. He maintains the payment was completed and notes that CCTV video circulating online lacks full context, adding he will cooperate with the ongoing legal process.

Nation's Fuel Stock Secured, Public Urged Not to Panic

The Indonesian government says the national supply of fuel oil is currently sufficient, with Pertamina prepared to maintain stability of supply. Official data clarify that a circulating reserve of around 20 days is not a sign of imminent shortage, and it is complemented by mandatory energy buffers funded by the state; authorities urge the public to remain calm ahead of Eid al-Fitr.

How the Indonesia–US Agreement Impacts Indonesia's Trade Structure

The Prognosa Research & Consulting study suggests that the United States' reciprocal tariff policy under the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART) could position Indonesia strategically in Southeast Asia, potentially expanding competitive space for textiles and other flagship commodities. The analysis also notes shifts in Indonesia's export structure to the United States and a US$38.4 billion purchase commitment, underscoring the need for mitigations and policy alignment to sustain national value-added growth.

Tackling Waste at the Source: Badung Regency Deploys OPD to Villages

Badung Regency is rolling out a Source-Based Waste Management programme, mobilising all OPD to map, socialise, and tightly supervise waste sorting from households to businesses before the Suwung TPA stops accepting organic waste in April 2026. The initiative includes mass data collection of resident-run waste facilities and a digital system to track volumes, with enforcement tightening ahead of the August 2026 closure. Officials emphasise sorting at the source as essential to the policy's success.

Home Affairs Minister Instructs Regional Heads and Their Deputies to Stand By in Their Jurisdictions One Week Before and One Week After Eid al-Fitr

Indonesia's Home Affairs Minister Tito Karnavian has issued a circular directing all regional heads and their deputies to remain in their jurisdictions and be on standby from one week before to one week after Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijriah. The circular also calls for postponement of overseas travel unless essential, and outlines steps to bolster security, inflation control, and Lebaran readiness. The guidance was sent to governors, regents, mayors, and copied to several national authorities.

Amid Attacks, Iran Announces New Leader Has Been Chosen

Amid escalating Middle East hostilities, Iran says a new leader has been appointed by the Assembly of Experts, though the name is not disclosed. The UAE reports threats from Iran and intercepts several missiles, as air defences and jets respond to the threat, amid sirens and flight diversions in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Israel warns it will strike those involved in appointing Iran’s successor, while former US President Donald Trump calls for Washington to shape the outcome, a claim Iran rejects.

Serbian MP: China offers valuable insights

Serbia's Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly describes China's 'Two Sessions' as a demonstration of an inherently unique people's democracy, proven effective over decades and offering valuable lessons for the international community. She highlights the CPPCC's diversity, China's focus on innovation and balanced regional development, and notes ongoing Serbia–China cooperation as well as discussions on the 15th Five-Year Plan to monitor closely. She adds that Europe should watch where China's next growth will lie.

IFEX 2026 Concludes: On-the-Spot Transactions Exceed US$300 Million

IFEX 2026 closed after four days at ICE BSD City, logging US$300 million in on-the-spot transactions. The fair drew 13,437 attendees and buyers from 86 countries, with China leading the buyer nations, highlighting Indonesia's rising role as a global furniture hub. Organisers emphasised broader economic impact, including domestic demand for natural-material furniture and expected multiplier effects on logistics, hospitality and transport.

SIWO PWI Pusat condemns intimidation by Malut United officials against journalists

SIWO PWI Pusat has condemned intimidation of journalists covering the BRI Super League match between Malut United and PSM Makassar, and urged authorities to take the matter seriously. The incident involved a Radio Republik Indonesia journalist being pressured to delete video, and officials allegedly instructing stewards to eject reporters despite official IDs. PSSI Pers also condemned the intimidation and reaffirmed that journalist work is protected by Law No. 40 of 1999 on the Press, calling for professionalism to safeguard a healthy football environment.

Indonesian Foreign Ministry Reveals Status of Four Indonesian Nationals Aboard Musaffah 2 After Explosion in the Strait of Hormuz

The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs says four Indonesian nationals were aboard the Musaffah 2 tugboat when it exploded and sank in the Strait of Hormuz. One crew member is undergoing burn treatment in Khasab, Oman; another technician survived in Abu Dhabi; three remain missing as authorities continue search efforts with consular coordination.

OJK records Islamic financing receivables of Rp31.05 trillion in January 2026

Indonesia's financial regulator OJK reported that Islamic financing receivables rose to Rp31.05 trillion in January 2026, up about 10.96% year-on-year. The majority of financing came from murabahah-based purchases, and officials say the sector's growth is supported by a regulatory framework that enables diverse Sharia financing schemes. In the capital markets, the Indonesia Sharia Stock Index fell in February 2026, though sukuk issuance and Sharia mutual funds continued to attract investor flows.

Talker Research Study: 54 Per Cent of Gen Z Parents Focus on Preparing Children for the Real World

A Talker Research study of 2,000 parents of children aged 0-6 found that 54 per cent of Gen Z parents regard parenting as essential to preparing children for real life. The collaboration between SGM Eksplor and Visinema Studios' Na Willa highlights the mother’s central role in early development and nutrition, with the film premiering across Indonesia during Eid al-Fitr in 2026 to inspire families toward nurturing practices.

North Jakarta residents urged to continue strengthening tolerance amid diversity

The mayor urged continued tolerance amid Jakarta's diverse society, citing Cap Go Meh celebrated during Ramadan as a symbol of interfaith harmony. He thanked the RW 016 committee and Pantai Mutiara residents for organising the event and urged continued support for the Jaga Jakarta programme to keep North Jakarta safe, orderly and harmonious.

Simile Develops AI for Digital Polling

Indonesian startup Simile is developing AI for digital polling after reportedly securing USD 100 million in venture funding from Index Ventures, according to a Wall Street Journal report cited by Gizmodo. Founder Joon Park says they are building a base model to predict human behaviour in any situation and at any scale, by training chatty AI agents to mimic real humans. The technology, inspired by The Sims, uses a sandbox with 25 agents accessible in natural language, and is being explored by CVS for customer insights and by Gallup for empirically validated public polling.

Tackling Illegal Vapes: Britain's Track-and-Trace Tax-Stamp System Could Serve as a Reference for Indonesia

Britain's HM Revenue and Customs has renewed its cooperation with SICPA to deliver a track-and-trace tax-stamp system for vaping products, underscoring its role in protecting state revenue and consumers. Indonesia's DJBC has published 2025 tax-stamp specifications under PER-15/BC/2024, while vape tax receipts rose to Rp2.65 trillion in 2024; however illegal products continue to cause revenue losses. The UK model may be adapted to Indonesia's context, focusing on production-line monitoring and data minimisation to avoid administrative burdens.

2,682 Homes in Serang Regency Flooded

Thousands of residents across Serang Regency, Banten, were affected as floods submerged 2,682 homes amid heavy rainfall and strong winds. Officials said 3,099 households or 9,184 people were affected across 24 desa in 13 kecamatan, with 337 elderly and 222 children prioritised for monitoring. Authorities warned of further downpours and landslides and urged residents along riverbanks to evacuate if water levels rise.

A Week of Iran's Internet Blackout, Cyberwar Risk Rises

A week after US and Israeli strikes, Iran's internet remains largely offline, leaving millions without access to information or digital communications. NetBlocks reports traffic at around 1% of normal, and officials and state media reportedly retain network access. Analysts warn the disruption may reflect a mix of internal restrictions and external cyberattacks, with Iran potentially replying with cyber operations against adversaries.

Golkar pushes LPDP funding to flow proportionally to pesantren graduates

Golkar party leader Bahlil Lahadalia calls for LPDP education funds to be distributed proportionally to pesantren graduates, arguing that good schools do not automatically guarantee higher quality and that santri should have equal opportunities. He said the issue will be pursued via the Golkar faction in the DPR, during a Ramadan Ramadan? event at a pesantren in Sukabumi, West Java.

Harnessing Biomass, PLN IP Produces 1,101.59 GWh of Clean Energy Over the Course of 2025

PLN Indonesia Power (PLN IP) reports biomass-based clean energy output of 1,101.59 GWh in 2025, up 16% on 2024, driven by co-firing biomass with coal across its PLTUs. The company says the programme supports emissions reductions and the expansion of renewable energy, with value-added from domestically sourced biomass and circular economy benefits.

Bahlil: LPDP Scholarships Should Also Reach Santri; Public-School Students Are Not Necessarily Superior

Golkar's Bahlil Lahadalia says LPDP funding should also reach santri in pesantren, arguing that students from public schools are not automatically more capable. He made the remarks during a Ramadan safari at the Azzainiyyah pesantren in Sukabumi, West Java, on 8 March 2026, emphasising that the state should support pesantren communities, including through nutritious meals, under President Prabowo.

Governor to involve private sector in funding Gorontalo Half Marathon

The Gorontalo provincial government plans to shift funding of the Gorontalo Half Marathon (GHM) to private sponsorship for the 2026 edition, with BKPM support to facilitate private partners. The move aims to boost the event's national profile and stimulate regional tourism and economic activity, alongside a new MoU with ID FOOD covering industrial and educational cooperation.

Iran's Supreme Leader successor to Khamenei has been decided

The Assembly of Experts has reportedly chosen a new Supreme Leader to succeed Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, with the name due to be announced soon. Ahmad Alamolhoda said the vote had taken place and a leader had been chosen, and other members suggested the late leader's son could take the post.

Australia considers providing military aid to the Middle East

Australia is weighing providing military assistance to Middle Eastern nations affected by Iran's retaliatory strikes but will not deploy ground troops. Foreign Minister Penny Wong says Canberra could help shield allies from drone and missile attacks, while actions would adhere to policy principles and be explained transparently to Australians. Repatriation flights have resumed, and tensions in the region have risen since the US and Israel struck Iran.

Pertamina Geothermal (PGEO) Books Rp2.3 Trillion Profit for Full-Year 2025

PGEO's 2025 net income attributable to owners reached US$137.7 million (about Rp2.3 trillion), down from US$160.5 million in 2024, as higher costs and FX pressures weighed on its bottom line. Revenue rose to US$432.7 million, but higher costs narrowed gross profit; however operating cash flow remained robust at US$313.5 million, and assets grew to US$3.03 billion.

Raymond Indra/Nikolaus Joaquin Learn Valuable Lessons from All England Semi-final

Indonesian doubles pair Raymond Indra and Nikolaus Joaquin reach the All England semifinal but are edged by world champions Kim Won-ho and Seo Seung-jae in straight sets. They describe the experience as a crucial learning curve at a Super 1000 event, emphasising improved preparation and composure for future tournaments.

Gekrafs Launches Asta Karya, Strategy to Strengthen Indonesia's Creative Economy Ecosystem

Gekrafs unveiled eight flagship programs under the Asta Karya concept at its National Working Meeting 2026, aiming to structure and sustain growth in Indonesia's creative economy. The organisation highlighted measures on IP financing, wage standards, regional creative hubs, and improved access to finance, while expanding its international presence and emphasising tangible benefits for creative workers.

Timeline of the Alleged Food Theft at Bibi Kelinci, Zendhy Kusuma's Version

Guitarist Zendhy Kusuma has offered a clarification on allegations that he did not pay for meals at the Bibi Kelinci restaurant. He and his party waited for almost two hours as their orders were delayed, checked the kitchen to confirm, and left in frustration; a server later asked for payment. He said they were willing to pay and planned to return to apologise and settle the bill, though the owner was out of town at the time.

Three Indonesian crew missing after tugboat Musaffah 2 explodes in the Strait of Hormuz

Three Indonesian crew members are missing after the UAE-flagged tugboat Musaffah 2 exploded in the Strait of Hormuz on 6 March 2026. The Indonesian authorities say four Indonesians were aboard Musaffah 2 at the time, with one Indonesian technician on the Safeen/Safine Prestige; one Indonesian crew member is injured, another survived in Abu Dhabi, and three remain missing. Indonesian diplomatic missions are coordinating with UAE and Oman authorities and the ship operator, and have urged a thorough investigation and regular family updates.

Emirates Bali–Dubai flights resume after suspension over Iran–US–Israel conflict

Emirates has resumed Bali–Dubai services, with EK368 operating from Dubai to Denpasar on Friday evening, marking the first international arrival since airspace disruptions linked to Middle East tensions. The Airbus A380 had been stationed at Ngurah Rai since February 28, and Denpasar–Dubai services have now restarted, though other Middle East routes remain affected; the airport is coordinating with airlines and immigration to assist passengers, with several aircraft still parked and emergency immigration checks in place.

AirNav Indonesia Partners with Jamdatun of the Attorney General's Office to Strengthen Governance and Mitigate Legal Risks

AirNav Indonesia signed a Cooperation Agreement with the Deputy Attorney General for Civil Law and State Administrative Law (Jamdatun) of the Attorney General's Office on 5 March 2026 in Jakarta to strengthen corporate governance and mitigate civil and state administrative law risks in its operations. The partnership, building on a 2022 collaboration, aims to support the company's transformation, enhance governance, and bolster legal understanding among staff.

Understanding the Bantargebang Integrated Waste Management System and Its Impact on the Ecosystem

Jakarta's Bantargebang Integrated Waste Management Facility has evolved beyond a disposal site into Indonesia's largest waste-management technology lab. By 2026 it handles around 7,500–8,000 tonnes daily, with a capacity of 70 million tonnes, more than 80% filled, while the government extends its contract to 2031. The facility relies on landfill mining, RDF production, and incineration to generate energy, yet sustainability hinges on social compensation schemes and the public's efforts to reduce waste at source.

Landslide in Bantargebang, police suspect more victims buried

A landslide at Bantargebang's integrated waste processing site raises concerns as authorities note that additional victims may remain buried, with on-site search and rescue ongoing. Basarnas had previously reported three fatalities, and officials are compiling casualty data while many trucks are still buried.

Banten Police Evacuate Toddler From Flooding in Cibeber, Cilegon City

Flooding in Cilegon forces evacuation of residents, including a toddler, by the Banten Police. Waters reached up to 70 cm on Saturday night, prompting emergency rescue with rubber boats; by Sunday afternoon several zones had receded. The force emphasised rapid, coordinated assistance and 24-hour Call Center 110 for emergencies.

Muslims in Bali May Perform Takbir on Nyepi Without Loudspeakers

Indonesia’s Ministry of Religious Affairs has issued Bali-specific guidelines for Nyepi Day on 19 March 2026, when it coincides with the night of Takbir for Eid al-Fitr 1447 AH. The guidance allows Muslims to perform takbir at nearby mosques or mushallas on foot without loudspeakers, and sets conditions on fireworks and lighting from 18:00 to 21:00 WITA. It also delegates security and order to local mosque administrations and other community actors, emphasising mutual respect and that the measures apply only in Bali.

Ministry of Religious Affairs Issues Takbir Guidelines in Bali When Nyepi Coincides

Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs has issued guidelines for Takbir in Bali if Nyepi coincides with the night of Takbir for Eid al-Fitr 1447 H on 19 March 2026. The guidelines, produced after coordination with Bali's regional government, religious leaders and community figures, set rules for mosque-led Takbir, security, and community collaboration, and apply only to Bali. The move aims to maintain interfaith harmony and prevent social tensions during overlapping religious observances.

Living in Disaster-Prone Areas, Residents Are Often Haunted by Anxiety

In disaster-prone areas, residents frequently experience anxiety during rainfall, driven by past disasters, with psychologists noting it is a normal mental reaction. The piece cites psychologist Danti Wulan Manunggal, who explains heightened vigilance and potential long-term effects on psychological well-being.

Clowns and street children proliferate at Mataram's takjil centres, pressuring visitors to hand over money

Clowns and street children at multiple takjil centres in Mataram, West Nusa Tenggara, are accused of pressuring visitors to give money. Authorities say they will deploy teams to curb the practice, using persuasion first but prepared to take action if intimidation continues.

Ten Years with IM3: Bali Resident Wins a BYD Car from Indosat

A Bali resident who has used IM3 for ten years wins the top prize, a BYD M6 electric car, in Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison's IMPoin programme; the draw ran from September to December 2025 with 2,025 prizes, underscoring the operator's commitment to transparency and customer loyalty.

US Inflation and the Iran Conflict to Loom Over Markets Next Week

Next week features a heavy macro data calendar, with US February inflation due on Wednesday night WIB and Chinese data also on tap, while Middle East tensions risk adding volatility in energy and currency markets; Indonesia's BI will release the February Consumer Confidence Index to gauge domestic sentiment.

11 Complete Tips for The Last Guardian on PS4

The Last Guardian PS4 is an adventure and puzzle game developed by Team Ico and published by Sony Interactive Entertainment in 2016. The article provides 11 tips to cooperate with Trico, explore ancient ruins, and solve puzzles, including how to control Trico, manage fear, and uncover hidden areas.

Tragedy at Bantargebang Integrated Waste Processing Facility, Bekasi: Three Residents Die in Trash Landslide

Three people died after being buried by a landslide of waste at Bantargebang's Integrated Waste Processing Facility in Bekasi. The victims include two women who owned a warung and a truck driver; authorities are continuing to tally casualties as heavy equipment aids evacuation.

Al-Nahdlah Islamic Boarding School in Depok Receives 1,000 Qur'ans

Yayasan Muslim Sinar Mas (YMSM) has donated 1,000 Qur'an copies to the Al-Nahdlah Islamic Boarding School in Depok, West Java, to deepen students' faith through reading and studying the Qur'an, especially during Ramadan. The donation was announced by YMSM's leadership, who stressed Ramadan as a time for tadarus and understanding Qur'anic meaning, with YMSM distributing around 1.4 million Qur'ans since 2008 via Sinar Mas' business pillars across Indonesia.

Flooding of Mampang Underpass Blocks Road Access

Heavy rains in Jakarta on the morning of Sunday 8 March 2026 caused flooding in the Mampang Underpass, with water depths of around 30 to 70 centimetres. The overflow from drainage into Kali Krukut forced authorities to close the Underpass access temporarily; traffic was diverted as officials monitored the situation.

Ambon KSOP spot-checks 18 ships for Lebaran 2026 sea transport

Ambon’s Class I Port Authority (KSOP) conducted spot checks on 18 of 21 vessels based in Ambon to ensure operational readiness for Lebaran 2026 sea transport. Three ports—Yos Sudarso, Slamet Riyadi, and Siwabessy—are prepared to handle mudik and balik flows, with ongoing coordination with operators and authorities to ensure safe and compliant services. Travellers are urged to check departure schedules and follow safety rules while travelling by sea.

Yaqut's Praperadilan: Defence Team Outlines Five Points of Alleged Formal Defects in Suspect Designation

Yaqut Cholil Qoumas's defence team alleges five formal defects in the KPK's designation of him as a suspect, ahead of the praperadilan's conclusion stage. They argue the process breaches due process and that several procedural requirements may have been violated, with the hearing nearing its end.

Chinese Foreign Minister urges Global South to safeguard multilateralism

At a Beijing press conference, Foreign Minister Wang Yi urged Global South countries to uphold genuine multilateralism, defending a UN-centered international order and the rule of international law. He highlighted the rise of the Global South and called for unity through platforms like BRICS, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation and the G77, while emphasising inclusive globalisation and China’s commitment to openness, liberalisation and stable global supply chains.

Culture Minister Inaugurates Exhibition Space at Qur'an History Museum in North Sumatra

Culture Minister Fadli Zon inaugurated the Exhibition Space at the Qur'an History Museum in Deli Serdang Regency, North Sumatra, as part of the Ministry of Culture's drive to strengthen cultural infrastructure. He highlighted Indonesia's megadiversity of cultural expressions and called for engaging, interactive museum experiences and cross-sector collaboration to promote heritage. The museum will also function as a research hub and community venue, with the opening expected to spur similar cultural initiatives across the country.

Three People Die as Landslide Buries Bantargebang Garbage Mountain

A landslide at Bantargebang’s Zone 4 of the Integrated Waste Processing Facility buried stalls and trucks, killing three people—two stall owners and a truck driver from Karawang. The incident occurred around 15:29 WIB on Sunday, with ongoing efforts to account for vehicles still buried and stalls at the site. Authorities are continuing investigations and assistance for those affected.

Bogor Regent Calls for Nuzulul Quran Momentum to Strengthen Faith

Bogor Regent Rudy Susmanto has urged residents to use the Nuzulul Quran commemoration as an opportunity to strengthen their Islamic faith and values, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan. The regency distributed 4,000 Qurans to mosques across Bogor, complemented by a further 2,000 from the Bogor Police, whilst encouraging residents to maintain security and harmony during the festive season.

BPJPH to Establish a Technical Implementation Unit in West Kalimantan to Strengthen the Border Halal Ecosystem

BPJPH plans to establish a Technical Implementation Unit in West Kalimantan to bring halal certification services closer to communities and businesses in Indonesia's border region with Malaysia. The move aims to bolster border-area halal infrastructure and strengthen Indonesia's halal industry competitiveness in the regional market, with cooperation among LP3H, higher education institutions, and local government.

Cak Imin Urges Local Governments to Provide Strategic Facilities for MSMEs

Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment Muhaimin Iskandar (Cak Imin) urged central and regional governments to provide strategic facilities for MSMEs to help them grow and expand markets. He argued the move has legal backing and presidential approval, and pressed for greater use of domestic raw materials in festival foods to cut imports, framing Jejak Jajanan Nusantara as a model for a people’s economy that links small businesses with investors and large industry.

Iran Set to Announce New Supreme Leader to Replace Khamenei

Iran's Assembly of Experts is poised to announce a new Supreme Leader to replace Ayatollah Khamenei, following US-Israel air strikes that destroyed oil depots and sparked fires across Tehran. The decision reportedly has been made, but no name has been disclosed; one member suggested the late leader's son could take the post. Israel warned it would target the new leader and the Assembly, while Iran's Revolutionary Guards said they could sustain drone and missile warfare in the Middle East for up to six months.

Three people killed as waste landslide buries Bantargebang Integrated Waste Processing Facility

Three people were killed when a waste pile collapsed at Bantargebang’s Integrated Waste Processing Facility in Desa Ciketing Udik, Bantargebang district, Bekasi City. The victims were two women and a truck driver; rescue teams have been deployed as authorities continue to tally casualties and carry out evacuations.

Trash Heap at Bantargebang Integrated Waste Processing Facility Collapses, Buries Trucks and a Stall

Three people were confirmed dead after a waste heap collapsed at Bantargebang TPST in Bekasi on 8 March 2026. Rescue teams are surveying the site as authorities say several waste trucks and a stall remain buried under debris; investigations are continuing into the incident.

Pekanbaru Mayor Rejects Bribes Ahead of Eid al-Fitr

Ahead of Eid al-Fitr, Pekanbaru Mayor Agung Nugroho reaffirms his commitment to integrity and transparency by rejecting any form of gratification connected to his office. He issued an official notice to all city officials, civil servants, leaders of the region's state-owned enterprises, and other stakeholders, stating that he accepts no gifts and that no one is authorised to receive gifts on his behalf; integrity must guide all government processes, including promotions, policy decisions, and project delivery. He calls on officials and the public to uphold a clean administration for Pekanbaru's progress.

List of Eight Locations in Kudus, Central Java, Buried by Landslides

Eight landslide sites across three villages in Kudus Regency, Central Java, disrupted roads but access has since reopened. Local authorities and community volunteers cleared debris, and residents are urged to remain vigilant during heavy rainfall.

Nine Recommended Cars for Beginners

Media Indonesia's editorial team presents nine beginner-friendly car options for 2026, spanning affordable LCGCs, compact SUVs and EVs. The guide highlights ease of handling, fuel efficiency and safety features, with current Jakarta OTR prices cited as of March 2026. Models featured include Honda Brio, Toyota Agya, Daihatsu Ayla, Suzuki S-Presso, Wuling Air EV, Toyota Raize, Daihatsu Rocky, Mitsubishi Xpander and Hyundai Stargazer.

Pekanbaru City Government Launches Waste-to-Cash Exchange Programme

The Pekanbaru city government, in partnership with Rekosistem, launches a programme to convert waste into money, funded by a third party and not from APBD. The scheme uses a mobile app and a network of drop points to collect diverse waste types and aims to improve waste management and raise public awareness.

When the Ulama Recount the Blood-Soaked Struggle for Pramono Anung in the Jakarta Gubernatorial Election

The head of FUHAB Jakarta, Muhammad Luthfi Zawawi, says ulama and Betawi groups rallied behind Pramono Anung for the Jakarta gubernatorial race, even at the cost of harsh scrutiny from other organisations. FUHAB continues to back him as the right leader for Jakarta and highlights its religious and social programs for street children around Blok M, while noting their office requires repairs.

Weather Forecast 9–12 March 2026: Several Regions Warned of Light to Moderate Rain

BMKG forecasts that most of Indonesia will experience light to moderate rain from 9 to 12 March 2026. Areas at risk of moderate to heavy rainfall include Aceh, North Sumatra, West Sumatra, the Riau Islands, and Jakarta, among others. The agency urges vigilance for hydrometeorological hazards and to monitor official BMKG channels for updates.

Arab Businessman Causes War Defeat; Turns Out to Be Israeli Intelligence

A prominent Arab entrepreneur turned out to be a Mossad agent. His identity was exposed after he leaked Syrian military secrets, and he was publicly executed. The case concerns Eli Cohen, who operated under the alias Kamel Amin Thaabet, and his infiltration of Syria via elite circles for Mossad.

Coral Reef Garden Technology Accelerates Marine Ecosystem Recovery in East Java

East Java's Sendang Biru community marks a milestone in marine conservation as the Bhakti Alam Sendang Biru Foundation and Biorock Indonesia install the first Biorock Garden structure, backed by Daughters For Earth. The project includes technology transfer to a local team, enabling faster coral growth and aiming to restore fishermen’s livelihoods while emphasising a blue economy aligned with environmental protection.

BGN urges SPPGs to upload free meal programme menus on social media

BGN Deputy Head Sonny Sonjaya said SPPGs must create social media accounts and upload free meal programme menus, nutritional content, and prices to enable public monitoring. He emphasized that complaints about inadequate menus can be lodged with the SPPG or MBG kitchens as a form of transparency and accountability. The MBG free nutritious meals programme, launched on January 6, 2025, targets children, pregnant and breastfeeding women, and schoolchildren, with expansion planned to older adults and persons with disabilities; by February 27, 2026 it reached 61.2 million beneficiaries across 38 provinces, served by 24,368 SPPGs.

18.3 per cent of Australia's new-car market is Chinese brands

In 2025, Australians bought 221,699 cars manufactured in China, representing 18.3 per cent of the country's new-car market. Chinese brands grew sales by 25.9 per cent, with several brands entering the top ten, led by GWM at 52,809 units, as competition among Chinese marques intensified.

Hashim Djojohadikusumo: 27 Million Families Live in Substandard Housing

Hashim Djojohadikusumo, head of Indonesia's Housing Task Force, says 27 million families live in uninhabitable housing, prompting a government push for a 3-million-home programme for low-income households. He argues that speeding up housing construction could boost the wider economy, with potential gains of around 1.5–2 percentage points and up to 7 percent growth from housing; cross-ministry and private-sector cooperation is needed, and new projects are underway including a Lippo Group development in Cikarang and potential sites in Depok, Kominfo, and the Defence Ministry's land in Jakarta.

Golkar Party Holds Silaturahmi and Ramadan Safari in Sukabumi

Golkar's Central Executive Board led a Silaturahmi and Ramadan Safari at Ponpes Azzainiyyah in Nagrog, Sukabumi, highlighting the party's narrative of defending Pancasila. The visit, attended by senior Golkar figures including Bahlil Lahadalia, included prayers, a grave visit to the founder, the inauguration of a building, and a group iftar, framing the event as a continuation of historical struggles to uphold the state ideology.

Tug Mussafah 2 Explodes in the Strait of Hormuz, 3 Indonesian Crew Members Still Missing, 1 Safe, 1 Hospitalised

Three Indonesian crew members of tugboat Mussafah 2 remain missing after an explosion in the Strait of Hormuz. One Indonesian crew member is hospitalised in Oman after sustaining burn injuries, and another Indonesian technician who survived is in Abu Dhabi, with searches continuing. The Indonesian Foreign Ministry is coordinating with UAE and Oman authorities and calling for a full investigation, while urging Indonesians in the region to monitor official updates and contact embassy hotlines in emergencies.

BGN scrutinises ongoing supplier monopolies at 80 SPPG units in Solo Raya

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has flagged persistent supplier monopolies across 80 SPPG units in Solo Raya, as it investigates managerial and kitchen facility shortcomings within the MBG programme. Officials ordered immediate remedial actions and a one-month window to address deficiencies to ensure high standards and transparency in delivering Free Nutritious Meals to the community.

Musaffah 2 Explodes in the Strait of Hormuz, 3 Indonesian Seafarers Missing

Three Indonesian seafarers are missing after an explosion aboard the UAE-flagged tug Musaffah 2 in the Strait of Hormuz. The Indonesian embassy says authorities in the UAE and Oman are investigating, with one Indonesian survivor hospitalised in Oman. The incident followed the earlier damage to the container ship Safeen Prestige, which led to a towing operation.

Israeli settlers attack the West Bank, three Palestinians killed in Abu Falah

Palestinian authorities and the Israeli military said three Palestinians were killed on Sunday in an attack by Israeli settlers in the occupied West Bank, the second fatality in as many days. The victims, Thaer Faruq Hamayel, 24, and Farea Jawdat Hamayel, 57, died in Abu Falah, northeast of Ramallah, with seven others injured. Palestinian leaders condemned the attack, while the Israeli Defence Forces deployed troops to the area and warned there would be no tolerance for civilians taking the law into their own hands.

Empowered Women Strengthen Family Economies with PNM

Indonesian women account for about 64.5% of UMKM, more than 37 million, underpinning around 61% of national GDP. The PNM Mekaar programme has reached over 22.9 million economically disadvantaged women, providing financing plus mentoring and networking to foster family economic empowerment and women's leadership, with 73% of financing sharia-based and international recognition for inclusive financing.

The Government to Build 140,000 Vertical Housing Units in Cikarang

The Indonesian government, led by the Presidential Special Envoy and Head of the Housing Task Force, Hashim Djojohadikusumo, has announced plans to build 140,000 vertical housing units on 30 hectares donated by Lippo Group in Cikarang, West Java, as part of the Three Million Homes Programme. The project emphasises private-sector financing and careful, planned development to house low-income households.

Visiting Sukabumi Ponpes, Bahlil Dubbed Golkar's 'Kancil'.

Bahlil Lahadalia, the Golkar Party chairman and Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources, made a Ramadhan Safari visit to Azzainiyyah Pondok Pesantren in Sukabumi, West Java, accompanied by Golkar officials. The Ponpes leader praised him as Golkar's 'kancil' and highlighted his humble origins, noting his rise to ministerial rank.

Tanjungpandan Prison Allows Inmates to Break Fast With Their Families

Tanjungpandan Prison launched the Besilak programme, a free visiting facility during Ramadan, enabling inmates (WBP) to break fast with visiting family and strengthen kinship ties as part of rehabilitation and social reintegration. The scheme runs via online registration or at the service desk, with security checks and emphasis on the welfare of inmates and family support.

Ministry of Religious Affairs guidance on Takbiran in Bali if Nyepi coincides

Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs has issued a Bali-only guideline for Takbiran when Eid al-Fitr coincides with Hari Raya Nyepi, detailing permissible practices and the responsibilities of local communities to maintain harmony. The measure, developed in coordination with Bali authorities and religious leaders, limits Takbiran to walking distance, without loudspeakers or fireworks, and mandates cooperation with security forces; it is explicitly not intended for other regions.

Boost Oil and Gas Production by 10.4 Percent, Saka Energi Targets 24,000 BOEPD in 2026

Saka Energi Indonesia (SAKA), a Pertamina Gas Sub-Holding subsidiary, targets net production of about 24,000 BOEPD in 2026, up 10.4% from the previous year. The target stems from asset optimisation and successful development projects, including the UPA-17ST well in the Pangkah Working Area, now onstream with significant output. The company also pursued exploration and site preparation for future drilling to sustain long-term production and support national energy self-sufficiency.

Waste mountain at Bantargebang landfill, Bekasi collapses; three people killed

An unstable pile of waste collapsed at Bantargebang landfill in Bekasi, West Java, killing three people. The victims were two women who owned small warungs and a truck driver; several vehicles and stalls remain buried as rescue teams continue the search and casualty tallies.

Indonesia Tax Revenue Up 30.4% in February, Says Purbaya - Tempo

Indonesia's tax revenue in February 2026 rose 30.4% year-on-year to Rp245.1 trillion, representing 10.4% of the Rp2,357.7 trillion 2026 budget target. By the end of February, state revenue stood at Rp358 trillion while expenditure reached Rp493.8 trillion, producing a budget deficit of Rp135.7 trillion. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa defended the outlook amid Fitch's downgrade of Indonesia's debt outlook to negative, arguing the debt-to-GDP and deficit-to-GDP metrics remain safe and that growth was strong last year.

Indonesian Embassy handles vessel explosion incident in the Strait of Hormuz; three Indonesian nationals still missing

The Indonesian Embassy in Abu Dhabi is coordinating consular assistance after a tug boat explosion near the Strait of Hormuz left three Indonesian sailors missing and three others rescued. The Musaffah 2, sailing under UAE flag, caught fire and sank; investigations are ongoing by UAE and Oman authorities, and the embassy is urging a comprehensive inquiry and vigilance among Indonesian citizens in the UAE.

The Meaning of Vidi Aldiano's Song 'Datang dan Kembali'

The article examines the meaning of the pop ballad Datang dan Kembali by Vidi Aldiano, focusing on themes of loneliness, the return of a past love, and openness to love. It notes the song's timeless arrangement, the writer Bembi Noor, Maudy Ayunda's appearance in the video, and reports the artist's death from kidney cancer.

Between an emergency brake and limits on children's digital expression on social media

Indonesia has issued Permen Komdigi No. 9/2026 to progressively deactivate under-16 accounts on high-risk social platforms, effective from 28 March 2026, under PP 17/2025 (PP TUNAS) to protect children online. The policy covers platforms such as YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Roblox and Bigo Live, and is based on platform architecture designed to maximise user engagement. It mirrors global moves—Australia and Denmark have introduced similar restrictions—and is contextualised by data on online risks to children from UNICEF and Indonesian authorities.

Indonesia Reaffirms Commitment to Implement Halal Certification Obligation by October 2026 at WTO STC Forum

Indonesia reaffirmed its commitment to implement the mandatory halal certification regime by October 2026, stating that no further extensions or transitional periods are planned. The statement, delivered at the WTO's Specific Trade Concern (STC) forum, cited Government Regulation Number 42 of 2024 as the legal basis and noted ongoing mutual recognition arrangements with partner countries to support halal trade.

CNKO Shares Update 2026: Net profit jumps 166%, share price climbs to Rp67

CNKO, PT Exploitasi Energi Indonesia Tbk, reported its 2025 results on 6 March 2026, with net profit of Rp194.59 billion, up 166.45% year-on-year on revenue of Rp1.86 trillion. The stock rose 9.84% to Rp67 on 6 March 2026 as earnings quality improved and a capital-raising move further strengthened the group’s balance sheet.

Bangli Regency cleans up litter at Lake Batur

The Bangli Regency government led a large-scale clean-up at Lake Batur, Bali, involving over 5,000 participants from government agencies, local communities, schools and health workers. The event supports Indonesia ASRI and Bangli BISA programmes and underscores the community’s commitment to protecting Bali’s vital water source and promoting environmental stewardship.

Rabies-Infected Dog Allegedly Attacks at Buleleng Market, 15 Residents Bit

A stray dog believed to be infected with rabies ran amok at Buleleng Market in Bali on Sunday morning, biting 15 people. Most victims received medical treatment at RSUD Buleleng, with one patient still hospitalised. The incident prompted veterinary and health authorities to conduct tests, with samples to be sent to Denpasar for laboratory confirmation of rabies.

Zendhy Kusuma admits frustration after two-hour wait for food at Bibi Kelinci

Guitarist Zendhy Kusuma says he waited nearly two hours for a meal at the Bibi Kelinci restaurant, with fluctuating information from staff and an inspection of the kitchen to check the status of the order. The dishes were eventually served, but rushed and incomplete, and a waiter later came to collect payment as he sought to speak with the manager to explain the situation.

Tasikmalaya City Police Check Readiness of Mudik Routes on the National Route

Tasikmalaya City Police inspected security posts and the mudik routes along the national corridor ahead of the Ketupat Lodaya 2026 operation. They ensured eight security posts, two integrated posts, and three service posts are prepared, and that personnel are ready to provide safe, smooth passage for travellers during Eid al-Fitr 1447 H, emphasising humane, professional conduct and heightened vigilance.

Soft Power Index: Singapore the Strongest in ASEAN, Where Does Indonesia Rank?

Singapore leads ASEAN in the Global Soft Power Index 2026, ranking 21st globally, with Indonesia at 45th with a score of 42.0. The report highlights soft power as a tool to attract influence through culture, diplomacy and education, and notes Indonesia's potential but need to strengthen domestic and foreign policy credibility.

Wihaji oversees MBG 3B in West Kalimantan, highlights the role of SPPG

Minister Wihaji stressed that SPPG must supervise MBG distribution to ensure it reaches pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers and non-PAUD toddlers. He noted that 60 SPPG kitchens in Pontianak are distributing MBG to 1,910 pregnant women, 3,718 nursing mothers and 12,808 non-PAUD toddlers, and urged stronger central–regional collaboration under Law No. 23 of 2014. Pontianak’s mayor said 63 MBG kitchens in the city serve around 140,000 meals daily, illustrating the programme’s scale.

Singkawang: Indonesia's Laboratory of Tolerance

Singkawang in West Kalimantan is presented as a living model of local tolerance, where Chinese, Malay and Dayak communities celebrate together amid multi-faith events such as Imlek and Cap Go Meh. The SETARA Institute ranks Singkawang as Indonesia’s most tolerant city, reflecting inclusive governance, low intolerance, and strong social cohesion.

Hezbollah launches around 100 rockets and drones into Israel

Cross-border hostilities intensified after Hezbollah fired around 100 rockets and drones from Lebanon into Israel on Saturday, while Israeli tanks moved toward the southern Lebanon border. Hezbollah claimed key strikes on the Iron Dome radar at Haifa's Kiryat Eliezer and the Stella Maris maritime surveillance facility, and warned residents of Nahariya and Kiryat Shmona to evacuate. The report also notes Israeli military offensives and prior Hezbollah actions, and the government’s ban on the group’s security and military activities.

Kakorlantas Inspects Japek II South Toll, Ensures KM 13 Work to Be Completed in 2–3 Days

Polri’s Traffic Corps chief Inspector General Agus Suryonugroho inspected the readiness of the Jakarta–Cikampek II South Toll Road for the Eid al-Fitr 2026 travel period. He said two points at KM 16 and KM 13 on the Sadang–Setu section remain under completion, with KM 13 expected to be finished within two to three days. Four toll exits are already functional and traffic-management measures will be deployed to ease congestion during the Lebaran return flow.

Garuda Indonesia Plans to Halt Flights in Bengkulu Due to Low Passenger Numbers

Garuda Indonesia plans to suspend flights to Bengkulu on the Jakarta–Bengkulu route due to low passenger demand, prompting the Bengkulu Provincial Government to act to preserve service. The governor says a meeting with Garuda management aimed to sustain operations while authorities seek ways to increase passenger numbers. For now, Fatmawati Soekarno Airport operations continue, with officials emphasising the importance of national connectivity.

Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Says Under-16s’ Social Media Access Ban Aims to Prevent Gadget Addiction

Indonesia’s Minister of Primary and Secondary Education welcomed a new Komdigi regulation restricting social media use for children under 16, describing it as part of a cross-ministerial effort to protect youths from gadget addiction. He noted potential technical challenges, including preventing under-16s from falsifying personal information when creating social media accounts, and urged strict oversight and extensive education for parents and teachers. He said the rule could help shield the younger generation from inappropriate online content and practices not aligned with the nation's culture and civilization.

Woman Found Dead, Reduced to Skeleton, in Depok; Frequently Quarrelled with Her Informal Husband

A 56-year-old woman identified by the initials DH was found dead in Meruyung, Limo, Depok, West Java, her body reduced to bones. Police say she had a history of domestic disputes with her informal husband, whose whereabouts are unknown. The discovery was made by the victim's daughter and her partner while cleaning the house; the investigation is ongoing.

Situbondo Regent says two residents reported missing after being swept away by floodwaters

Situbondo Regent Yusuf Rio Wahyu Prayogo said floods caused by river overflow have damaged thousands of homes and left two residents missing, believed swept away by floodwaters. The missing are Tohari (Pak Has) and Jaelani from Patemon and Sumberanyar; emergency status has been raised and search efforts continue as heavy rain and strong winds affected several districts.

Pertamina Patra Niaga to operate five free mudik buses for ojol drivers

Pertamina Patra Niaga will deploy five free mudik buses for online motorcycle taxi drivers as part of its Mudik Together programme. The company also runs the Berkah Ojek Online MyPertamina (BOOM) scheme offering prizes including 100 motorcycles, with socialisation events and Ramadan collaborations with Telkomsel.

Ahead of Lebaran, KAI Daop 5 Purwokerto Offers Discounts for Mudik Travellers

PT Kereta Api Indonesia's Daop 5 Purwokerto has launched the Ramadan Festive 2026 promo, featuring a 30% discount on Mudik tickets and a Flash Sale with ultra-cheap fares via the Access by KAI app, valid 9–20 March 2026. The programme aims to help travellers plan ahead for Lebaran, with several services discounted and tickets already selling briskly; as of 7 March, 150,836 Lebaran tickets had been sold, around 58% of capacity.

Average life expectancy of Chinese citizens reaches 79.25 years in 2025

Life expectancy in China rose to 79.25 years in 2025, up from 2020, in a sign of progress under policies prioritising primary care and expanding health coverage. Officials plan to push the figure towards 80 years by 2030 as part of the 15th Five-Year Plan, with telemedicine and mobile services widening access.

Hashim Reveals 27 Million Families Live in Uninhabitable Homes

Hashim Djojohadikusumo warns that around 27 million Indonesian families live in uninhabitable housing and that the backlog of demand for decent homes is immense, with 9–15 million families already on waiting lists. He argues that accelerating the 3 million-house programme for Low-Income Households could boost GDP growth and that the government is expanding housing projects with Lippo Group and on land owned by other ministries.

Speed up flood response: DKI Jakarta Province deploys 1,200 pumps

Jakarta authorities have mobilised 1,200 flood-control pumps—668 stationary across 243 sites and 536 mobile units—to accelerate drainage after exceptionally heavy rain. The governor said pumping is ongoing and rainfall reached 264 mm in one day, while medium-term river normalisation on Ciliwung, Cakung Lama and Krukut aims to cut flood risk, with Cakung Lama targeted for completion in 2027. BPBD data show floods affected 74 RTs and 15 road segments, with water depths up to 1.2 metres.

Public Works Ministry targets completion of KIPP Papua Pegunungan by 2028

The Indonesian Public Works Ministry aims to complete the Papua Pegunungan KIPP, the regional government hub in Wamena, Jayawijaya, by 2028, with work due to start in the second half of 2026. The project will begin with three main buildings—the Governor's Office, the MRP and the DPR—and has faced delays due to a relocation of the site. The ministry, working with the Home Affairs Ministry and the Papua Pegunungan provincial government, is preparing construction documents and expects activity to proceed in the second half of 2026.

Al Washliyah Backs Regulation Prohibiting Children Under 16 from Using Social Media

Al Jam’iyatul Washliyah's chairman KH Masyhuril Khamis expressed support for Meutya Hafid's policy barring anyone under 16 from having social media accounts. He urged broad socialisation of the regulation and argued it should be strengthened by a formal law regulating social media content, potentially covering platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X, YouTube, Threads and AI. He urged DPR Commission I and the Ministry of Communications and Digital Affairs to draft such legislation to protect Indonesians from unhealthy and invalid broadcasting content.

Forestry Law Enforcement Hands Over Two Suspects in Illegal Ebony Timber Case to East Seram District Prosecutor's Office

Two suspects connected to the illegal Ebony timber trade have been handed over to the East Seram District Prosecutor's Office for further legal action, with evidence including timber logs and transaction documents. The case involves striped ebony (belore hitam) and processed amara timber transported from East Seram to Surabaya, and highlights ongoing multi-agency efforts to clamp down on illegal logging in Indonesia.

To Reach the Top Three in the 2029 Elections, NasDem DPP Focuses on Java Island

NasDem's central leadership concludes a Ramadan Safari across Java with a Bandung event, aiming to place the party in the top three in the 2029 elections and securing 100 DPR seats, with Java as a strategic battleground due to uneven distribution of seats. West Java's DPW pledges to build party infrastructure to penetrate the top three regionally and nationally, as cadres are urged to maintain solidarity.

Schedule and Ticket Prices for the SuPasPro Commuter from Surabaya to Probolinggo

The government has launched the SuPasPro Commuter Line, serving Surabaya–Pasuruan–Probolinggo to boost mobility in East Java’s Tapal Kuda region. The service offers two daily departures from each city and aims to spur tourism and local economic growth, with initial ticket sales exceeding 400 on day one.

Public Works Minister: Tarutung SPAM boosts water supply by 50 litres per second

The Indonesian Minister of Public Works announced that Tarutung’s Drinking Water Supply System (SPAM Tarutung) will gain an additional 50 litres per second, doubling capacity to 100 litres per second and serving around 11,000 households. The upgrade, targeted to be connected by August or September 2026, aims to strengthen sustainable access to clean water and improve basic infrastructure in North Tapanuli, with support sought from local government for land and approvals.

German brand BMW becomes the United States’ biggest car exporter.

BMW's Spartanburg plant in South Carolina has emerged as the leading automotive exporter to the United States by value for 2025, according to US Department of Commerce data cited by Carscoops. The plant produced 412,799 X models in 2025 and has contributed to a total of 3 million vehicles worth US$113 billion produced since 2014, while BMW emphasises the importance of free trade amid trade tensions.

Sukabumi City Labour Office Opens THR and BHR Information and Complaints Post

The Sukabumi City Labour Office has opened an information and complaints post for THR and BHR, with a later complaints desk to be launched before Eid al-Fitr. Employers must pay THR and BHR in cash and in full, with THR for employees with at least one year of continuous service amounting to one month's wages (pro‑rated for those with between one month and a year). BHR for drivers and couriers in app-based services must be at least 25% of the last 12 months' net income; monitoring will be stepped up next week.

Buleleng Flood Victims Rise as 12-Year-Old Boy Found Dead

Rescuers on Bali's Buleleng district found a 12-year-old boy among the latest flood victims, bringing the death toll to four. The discovery occurred on the third day of search operations as teams canvassed coastal waters, rivers and debris with personnel from Basarnas, TNI, Polri and local agencies, with further searches planned for Monday morning.

BFI Finance's new financing rises 9.3% year-on-year, assets reach Rp 25.5 trillion

BFI Finance posted 2025 financing growth with new financings of Rp 21.9 trillion and total assets of Rp 25.5 trillion, up 1.4% year-on-year. The company reported revenue of Rp 6.7 trillion and a profit of Rp 1.581 trillion, while non‑performing financing remained below industry averages; dividends were paid to shareholders.

Tangerang Regency floods widen, 9,000 households affected

Flooding in Tangerang Regency has spread to 40 villages across 15 districts after heavy rainfall since Saturday. About 9,000 households have been affected, with evacuations under way and 40 rubber boats deployed; officials warn that extreme weather could bring further flooding in the coming days.

Receives Land Grant from Lippo for the 3 Million Homes Programme, Danantara Prepares Rp16 Trillion

Danantara Indonesia plans up to Rp16 trillion in funding for vertical housing under the government's 3 million homes programme, backed by Lippo Group's land grant of about 30 hectares in Cikarang, Bekasi. The initial phase targets 12.8 hectares for 18 towers of about 32 storeys each, with an estimated total investment of Rp14-16 trillion, and will involve collaboration with BUMN Karya alongside private sector partners to accelerate the housing backlog reduction.

Video: War! Would-be Umrah Pilgrims Cancel Travel in Droves

The Iran–United States war, ongoing since 28 February 2026, is spreading disruption to flights and airport operations in the Middle East, affecting Umrah travel to and from Saudi Arabia. Direct Indonesian-to-Jeddah services continue for now, but around 85 Umrah pilgrims are stranded in Saudi Arabia, with many would-be travellers cancelling their trips as the situation remains unstable. The conflict also threatens the 2026 Hajj season.

The History of International Women's Day, Begun Over a Century Ago

International Women's Day, observed on 8 March, marks more than a century of women's rights advocacy. The piece traces its origins from early 20th-century protests to UN-backed observance and annual themes, while highlighting persisting gaps in gender equality. It also outlines global policy commitments and initiatives targeting accelerated progress by 2030.

Analyst: Damaged Rivers Upstream Triggered Jakarta Flooding

An urban planning analyst argues that upstream rainfall and river degradation undermine Jakarta's flood defences and that the flood-control budget should be rigorously evaluated for its actual impact. The piece also notes persistent concerns over green spaces and policy effectiveness as floods recur almost every year.

15 Inspirational and Touching International Women's Day 2026 Messages

International Women's Day on 8 March 2026 centers on the theme Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls, urging action to ensure rights for women and girls are realised in daily life. The article also suggests sharing greetings of support to women around us as a simple act to promote equality and justice.

SAKA Drives Production Growth Through Optimisation of Oil and Gas Assets

SAKA Energi Indonesia outlines a programme of production optimisation, exploration and technology deployment to sustain long-term performance. The company targets net production of 24,000 BOEPD in 2026, up about 10% on the prior year, driven by new wells, workovers and asset optimisation, including the UPA-17ST development well at WK Pangkah reaching onstream.

A Story of an Industry Growing with Its Community in a Village

In Mekargalih village, a Ciomy Factory operating since 2018 has integrated into local life, employing mainly locals and drawing a large share of the workforce from the village's youth. The arrangement has spurred a broader local economy, with micro, small and home-based businesses taking part in the factory’s ecosystem, and even a weekly cake‑sharing programme supporting mosques. The piece illustrates a gradual but meaningful fusion of industry and community livelihoods.

Day Nine of the War: Iran's Oil Facilities Attacked as Thick Smoke Envelops Tehran

US-Israel joint airstrikes on Iran enter their ninth day, hitting four oil storage facilities and an oil transfer hub in Tehran and Alborz. Iran's state media described the attack as being carried out by the United States and the Zionist regime, with casualties reported across Iran, Lebanon and Israel. Authorities say there is no fuel shortage despite fires and fatalities.

704 disaster-affected households in Agam willing to relocate collectively

In Agam Regency, West Sumatra, 704 disaster-affected households have expressed willingness to relocate collectively to designated sites. The plan involves multiple relocation sites with specified capacities and ongoing land procurement, particularly for residents of Palembang, with relocation preferences for Palembayan. The programme hinges on available land and coordination among local authorities.

Rising Street Money-Exchange Services Ahead of Lebaran: Is It Safe?

Demand for small-denomination cash surges ahead of Lebaran, leading to a proliferation of street money-exchange services that often outstrip formal channels. Bank Indonesia typically allocates substantial physical cash liquidity for Ramadan–Idul Fitri, but bottlenecks in outlets and quotas push many to informal routes. While users praise speed and convenience, both safety and stock shortages pose potential risks.

Jakarta Floods Seen as Inextricable from Shortage of Green Open Space

Jakarta's recurrent floods are being attributed not only to heavy rainfall but also to the scarcity and questionable quality of green open spaces (RTH). Activists warn that only a small fraction of the capital is designated as RTH, failing to meet the regulatory target and hindering water absorption, with calls for holistic urban planning that respects ecological functions.

Women Grow with PNM, Driving Family and Community Economies

Indonesian women underpin micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), with about 64.5% of MSMEs run by women, contributing around 61% of the national GDP. The PNM Mekaar programme has reached over 22.9 million underprivileged women, offering financing, training and ongoing mentoring that strengthens family economies and promotes female leadership in communities. About 73% of PNM financing is Sharia-based, a model that has earned industry recognition.

Serang City Flooded: 573 Homes Submerged, Two Buildings Collapsed

Heavy rain and drainage failures caused flooding across Serang City, affecting 573 households (around 1,905 people) across eight locations, with water depths up to 1 metre in Manggerong. Strong winds also toppled two houses, while emergency teams were deployed to evacuate residents and assess damage. BPBD urged caution for residents and road users amid continuing extreme weather and the risk of fallen trees or landslides.

Sukabumi Regency Government Declares Landslide Emergency Status

Sukabumi Regency, West Java, has declared a landslide disaster emergency in Bantargadung Subdistrict, following widespread damage from heavy rainfall that damaged hundreds of homes. The emergency status is in place for seven days, from 4 to 10 March 2026, to accelerate response and facilitate inter-agency coordination on the ground. As of 7 March, 134 households (475 people) were affected, with 120 households (407 people) displaced; 114 buildings were damaged to varying degrees, requiring coordinated relief efforts.

Jakarta Flooded as Rainfall Reaches Very High Levels, Says Pramono

Jakarta and its surrounds were inundated after extreme rainfall hit the capital, with 264 millimetres of rain recorded in a day. Governor Pramono Anung said the province activated around 1,200 pumps and mobilised teams to combat flooding, with river normalisation projects underway to reduce inundation, though complete elimination is unlikely. The event highlights vulnerabilities in flood management and ongoing works toward river normalisation, expected to ease flooding by 2027.

China reaffirms Europe as a partner

The Chinese government, through Foreign Minister Wang Yi, emphasises that Europe is a partner rather than a competitor within a multipolar world, urging European understanding of China and highlighting mutual economic benefits. The piece notes a series of high-level European visits to Beijing, underscoring the closeness of China–Europe relations.

Padang Panjang City Government and BPOM Test 18 Takjil Samples at Padang Panjang Central Market

Authorities from Padang Panjang City Government and BPOM Padang tested 18 takjil samples around Pasar Pusat during Ramadan using rapid tests for formalin, borax, Rhodamine B and methanil yellow. All samples were cleared as safe, with no hazardous substances detected. Officials also educated traders and the public on hygiene and safe food choices to safeguard Ramadan observance.

The Role of Tugboats in the Strait of Hormuz: Navigating the World's Most Dangerous Maritime Route

Amid rising tensions and volatile energy flows through the Strait of Hormuz, tugboats—though small—play a critical role in safeguarding global oil supply. The March 2026 loss of the UAE‑flagged Mussafah 2, with four Indonesian sailors among the crew, highlights the escalating dangers for non-combatant support vessels. Indonesia is monitoring the situation and calls for stronger international protection and legal safeguards to prevent disruption of an essential shipping lane.

Three Indonesian Seafarers Missing in the Strait of Hormuz After Musaffah 2 Explosion, Indonesian Embassy Mobilises

Three Indonesian crew members are still missing following the explosion and sinking of the UAE-flagged tug Musaffah 2 in the Strait of Hormuz. One Indonesian survivor has been brought to Abu Dhabi for medical treatment as Indonesian authorities coordinate with UAE and Oman authorities for a comprehensive investigation and to update families.

Oil Depot in Karaj, Iran Attacked, Six Dead

The United States and Israel reportedly attacked multiple oil facilities around Tehran. In Karaj, the Fardis oil depot was struck, killing at least six people and wounding 21. Separately, missiles were reported to have hit Najafabad in central Iran, with Al Jazeera citing around 20 dead and 50 wounded, highlighting the broader impact on Iran’s energy infrastructure and civilians.

Not an Expensive School: Expert Reveals the Secret to Making Children Smart

Parents are increasingly pushing to enrol their children in expensive, prestigious schools, but scientists say there is no proven link between cost and adult success. Stanford’s Mary C. Murphy argues that growth mindset—the belief that abilities can be developed—plays a crucial role, while fixed mindsets hinder perseverance. Carol Dweck adds that loving challenge, embracing mistakes, and lifelong learning are the best gifts parents can give.

Landslide at Bantargebang landfill buries trucks and warungs; three dead

A landslide occurred in Zone 4 of the Bantargebang landfill in Bekasi, West Java, burying trucks and small shops and leaving three people dead. Rescue teams are on site as authorities begin data gathering and casualty tallies.

Cak Imin Says National Health Costs Are Dominated by Curative Care

Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment Muhaimin Iskandar, known as Cak Imin, has warned that Indonesia's national health expenditure remains heavily skewed towards curative care rather than preventive measures. He urged a stronger push for healthy living and regular exercise to reduce treatment costs and improve public health, noting that physical activity can extend life, save money, and boost productivity. The comments were made during the Festival Jejak Jajanan Nusantara at Gelora Bung Karno in Jakarta on 8 February 2026, where he praised the rising public enthusiasm for sport, even during Ramadan.

Celebrating 11 Years, Cap Go Meh 2026 'Little Singkawang' Rich in Messages of Diversity

Cap Go Meh 2026 at TM Seasons City, Jakarta, marks the 11th edition of Little Singkawang, featuring Tatung performances, cross-ethnic parades, and authentic Chinese cuisine to celebrate Indonesia's diversity. The event is timed to harmonise with Imlek and Ramadan, emphasising unity under Harmoni Nusantara, and is pitched as a collaborative cultural space supported by authorities and local MSMEs.

The Assembly of Experts Has Agreed on Khamenei's Succession, to Be Announced Soon

Iran's Assembly of Experts reportedly has selected a successor to the late Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, with the chosen name to be announced by the Assembly's Secretariat. The process appears to have reached a majority consensus among members, with reports from Fars News and Al Jazeera Arabic indicating an imminent announcement.

Land Bank to Consolidate 35,000 Hectares of Land as Agrarian Reform Strengthened This Year

Indonesia's Land Bank Agency will strengthen its agrarian reform programme this year, prioritising land already under its management and with clear status, including speeding up utilisation in Batang, Central Java. Around 11,000 hectares are currently available for agrarian reform, with progress in Cianjur showing 88 AR recipients signing utilisation agreements, 57 titles registered, and 96 prospective subjects verified; a regent-issued AR decree will follow, while housing land is being prepared in Batang, Purwakarta, and Batu Bara.

International Women's Day: IYCTC highlights cigarette industry's strategies targeting women

On International Women's Day, the Indonesian Youth Council for Tactical Changes (IYCTC) highlights the health risks to women and families posed by the tobacco industry's manipulative strategies aimed at women. The group argues that progress for women is undermined as marketing tactics target female consumers, and calls for stronger regulation and higher tobacco taxes to curb consumption and protect household welfare.

Batam City Government Implements Regulation on Children's Digital Space to Prevent Cyberbullying and Harmful Content

Batam's city government has introduced child-protection regulations for online spaces to curb cyberbullying and exposure to harmful content for children and adolescents, aligned with national rules set to take full effect on 28 March 2026. The policy emphasises stronger age verification and supervision of accounts, with parental involvement highlighted as essential to its success.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi Warns the U.S.: Dialogue Is Better Than Confrontation

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi urges that the trajectory of Sino-American relations will shape global peace, calling for dialogue and cooperation over confrontation. He spoke at the 14th National People's Congress in Beijing, following a productive meeting with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio at the Munich Security Conference, and ahead of an anticipated April 2026 high-level meeting between Xi Jinping and Donald Trump.

On the Future of China–US Relations, China's Foreign Minister Says Trust Must be Built

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi says the future of China–US relations hinges on mutual trust. He framed 2026 as a pivotal year with planned high-level talks during Donald Trump’s visit to China in late March to early April, and reiterated China’s commitment to a peaceful, multipolar world. The remarks come amid renewed tensions over Taiwan-related arms sales by the United States.

US and Israel devise plan to seize Iran's highly enriched uranium

The United States and Israel are reportedly examining the deployment of special forces to Iran to secure highly enriched uranium stocks, according to Axios. The plan reportedly considers two main options: removing all enriched uranium from Iran, or sending a team of nuclear experts to reduce enrichment on site, potentially with IAEA involvement; discussions have been ongoing since before the latest Iran tensions, with Israeli defence officials monitoring progress and President Trump said to have entertained such options.

PRR Post-Disaster Acceleration Task Force Outlines Stages of Repair for Thousands of Schools in Sumatra

Indonesia's PRR Task Force says it will repair thousands of educational facilities across Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra in phased stages, prioritising severe and moderate damage. About 3,700 schools across the three provinces require further attention, with learning continuing in the meantime in damaged schools via temporary facilities. Coordination of data collection is split between Kemendikdasmen and Kemenag, reflecting the roles of education and religious schooling authorities.

Mesenchymal Stem Cells: A New Therapeutic Option in Orthopaedics

Indonesia's health regulators and the private sector are advancing stem cell therapy in orthopaedics, underpinned by a 2024 Ministry of Health decree guiding services. Mesenchymal stem cells are central to current research and clinical practice, including cord blood storage for future use. The developments underscore regulated, medically supervised regenerative medicine as a growing sector.

Six Ways to Change the Windows 7 Laptop Wallpaper

An accessible guide to changing the wallpaper on Windows 7, detailing how to open Personalize, navigate to Desktop Background, select or browse an image, choose how it fits the screen (Fill, Fit, Stretch, Tile, Center), and apply changes. It also advises using high-resolution images to ensure a sharp display.

Jasa Marga Reveals Repairs to Three Toll Roads in Jabodetabek

Jasa Marga has begun maintenance on three toll roads in Jabodetabek—the Jakarta Outer Ring Road (JORR), Tol Dalam Kota, and the Jakarta–Tangerang Toll Road—with road-surface resurfacing and SFO works scheduled for early March. One lane will be closed around work zones while other lanes remain open.

DPR Member Says TNI Must Clearly Explain Siaga 1 Readiness Status

TB Hasanuddin, a member of Indonesia's House of Representatives Commission I, calls on the TNI to provide clear, coordinated, and transparent information about Siaga 1 readiness. He explains the three Siaga levels and notes that Siaga 1 implies full concentration of troops and prepared equipment and logistics; DPR involvement is only required for certain military operations under the 2025 amendments to the Indonesian National Armed Forces Act.

Four People Dead, Including a Pakistani National, in Iranian Attack on Dubai

Four people have died in the United Arab Emirates, including a Pakistani national and other South Asian nationals, as Iran's retaliatory strikes in the Gulf continue to unfold. The UAE says it has faced hundreds of missiles and drones, with many intercepted and some debris causing fatalities in Dubai. Pakistan is coordinating with UAE authorities to repatriate two victims, underscoring the vulnerability of migrant workers in Gulf states amid the widening conflict.

Survey Reveals Singaporean Workers Unhappy Despite Earning Rp165 Million a Month

Singapore’s average monthly household income rose to S$12,446 in 2025, with real income up 6.8% and per-capita income up 7.5%, but happiness at work remains low according to a Jobstreet Seek survey. The data also show that non-employment income is rising as Singapore’s population ages, yet many workers report burnout and stress, with salary increases seen as a top potential remedy.

Minister for Housing and Settlement Areas: Tenor of Subsidised Home Loans Extended to 30 Years

The government has opened the option to extend the tenor of subsidised housing loans from a maximum of 20 years to 30 years as part of efforts to support the 3 million homes programme. Finance and other ministers back the move as a means to widen access to housing finance and reduce monthly instalments, while parallel schemes target MBT incomes.

Lawmakers urge government to draw up a roadmap for rice exports

Indonesian lawmakers urged the government to formulate a roadmap for exporting rice produced by domestic farmers amid stockpiles of 3.53 million tonnes at the end of December 2025. They highlighted an innovation, Sawah Pokok Murah, which could cut production costs and reduce reliance on chemical inputs, but noted persistent issues with broken rice that require BRIN and universities to address. The push underscores concerns that failure to boost domestic absorption and quality could hinder export potential and the national food self-sufficiency programme under President Prabowo Subianto.

Waiting for Maghrib Amid Jakarta’s Kuningan Concrete Jungle

In Jakarta’s Kuningan district, Masjid Jami’ Hidayatullah serves as a calm haven for office workers during Ramadan, with youth volunteers taking on duties from preparing meals to assisting the congregation. The piece contrasts the area’s glass towers with the mosque’s traditional, tranquil wooden architecture and highlights its open, inclusive atmosphere for those seeking rest or prayer during the workday.

Not Just the Menu: BGN Requires SPPG to Upload MBG Ingredient Prices on Social Media

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has ordered Nutrition Service Delivery Units (SPPG) supplying the Free Nutritious Meal (MBG) programme to publish daily menus and the prices of ingredients on social media, alongside nutritional details. The move, announced at a Tangerang technical briefing on food handling and the fast-tracking of the Hygiene Sanitation Compliance Certificate (SLHS), underscores tighter transparency and food-safety standards for MBG delivery.

Loloan Barat Ramadan Market Remains Busy, but Traders' Turnover Drops

The Loloan Barat Ramadan Market in Negara District, Jembrana Regency, Bali, remains crowded with takjil sellers and buka puasa foods, but traders report lower turnover than last year. The market features home-cooked wares consigned at stalls and attracts both Muslim and non-Muslim visitors.

China Urges No Interference in Its Ties with Latin America

China’s foreign minister Wang Yi said China–Latin America cooperation is not aimed at disturbing third parties and should not be disrupted by others. He spoke in Beijing amid questions over Beijing’s stance following the US-led detention of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, in New York, and broader geopolitical tensions in the region; he emphasised South–South solidarity and that Latin American nations must determine their own paths and alliances.

BNPB Provides Two Patrol Helicopters to Help Combat Forest and Land Fires in Riau

BNPB has provided two patrol helicopters to support prevention and response to forest and land fires in Riau. The Bell 206 B3 and Bell 206 L4, registered PK-FPA and PK-ZGK, are based at Roesmin Nurjadin Air Base in Pekanbaru and will be deployed for hotspot surveillance and rapid action. BNPB had previously dispatched aircraft for Weather Modification Operations, and 11 districts in Riau have recorded Karhutla this year, totalling about 1,161.64 hectares.

Cinema XXI Remains Open

Cinema XXI posted revenue of Rp5.9 trillion for 2025, up 2.6% from the Rp5.7 trillion in 2024, with net profit after tax of Rp776.2 billion and EBITDA of Rp1.8 trillion. The company emphasised growth across ticket sales, food and beverage, and an expansion programme that added 43 screens across 12 new cinemas, reaching 1,388 screens in 267 cinemas nationwide. Chief Executive Suryo Suherman attributed the performance to trust and collaboration among stakeholders and signalled optimism for the Indonesian cinema sector.

Aspermigas: Middle East Conflict Could Push Oil Prices Above US$100

Elan Biantoro, chairman of the National Oil and Gas Company Association (Aspermigas), warns that oil prices have surged amid escalating Middle East tensions between the United States-Israel and Iran. Prices have jumped from about US$65–US$67 per barrel to around US$83–US$90, with potential to exceed US$100 if the conflict escalates further, a situation reminiscent of the Russia–Ukraine shock. The disruption risk extends to Strait of Hormuz shipping and LNG flows from Qatar, with possible spillovers to Indonesia’s energy costs and industrial production.

Surabaya to Probolinggo Now Reachable by SuPasPro Commuter, Fares Start at Rp 8,000

The SuPasPro commuter rail line linking Surabaya, Pasuruan, and Probolinggo was officially launched by the Probolinggo city government to boost mobility and tourism. Officials say it will ease travel between Probolinggo and Surabaya and be integrated with the city’s tourism calendar, potentially boosting Gunung Bromo tourism. First-day ticket sales exceeded 400, and authorities anticipate stronger interregional connectivity and economic benefits for local communities.

South Merdeka Street closed, TransJakarta routes 1A to 6A diverted

TransJakarta has diverted several routes passing South Merdeka Street due to a road closure, affecting routes including 1A, 1P and Corridor 2, with additional reroutes for other services amid traffic congestion from a nearby protest. Traffic around the area remained mostly smooth according to police information, though disruptions are in effect on multiple corridors.

Living Under the Shadow of Disasters: Anxiety Follows When the Rain Falls

An article from Kompas.com discusses the mental health impact of living in disaster-prone regions. Psychologist Danti Wulan Manunggal explains that constant alertness can lead to emotional exhaustion, learned helplessness, and the normalisation of crisis, while also suggesting that such coping mechanisms may both aid resilience and undermine safety. The piece highlights how such mental burdens extend beyond physical logistics, shaping everyday life in Indonesia.

How to Check and Upload PPh 21 Tax Withholding Proof via Coretax DJP

Indonesia's tax authority has expanded its Coretax DJP platform to allow taxpayers to view and upload PPh 21 withholding evidence digitally. Taxpayers are urged to file their annual tax returns early ahead of the Idul Fitri holiday to simplify administration. The Coretax system aims to accelerate, integrate, and improve accuracy of tax reporting.

China allocates more than 100 billion yuan for childcare subsidies

China has launched a nationwide childcare subsidy scheme in 2025, allocating over 100 billion yuan, including more than 90 billion yuan from the central government, to provide 300 yuan per month per child under three. The policy has covered over 33 million eligible children and is part of longer-term plans under the 15th Five-Year Plan to foster a birth-friendly society and expand maternity benefits and childcare services.

Ramadan Madani, Embracing Harmony: From Sabang to Merauke, PNM Spreads Kindness to Orphans and the Needy

PNM launches Ramadan activities under the banner Ramadan Madani, Maknai Harmoni, reaching 4,655 offices across 36 provinces from Sabang to Merauke, including post-Dhuhr studies, daily iftars, itikaf, and donations to orphans and the underprivileged. The programme embodies madani values and extends support to 22.9 million customers, with outreach at the headquarters through roleplay experiences for children to understand the empowerment of ultra micro, micro, and small entrepreneurs.

Government to Build 140,000 MBR Housing Units on Lippo-Donated Land

Indonesia's PKP Ministry and Danantara will develop 140,000 MBR housing units on Lippo Group-donated land in Cikarang, West Java, as part of the government's 3 million homes programme. The project will be financed by national budget subsidies and bank lending with tenors up to 30 years, while private sector involvement aims to unlock a broad economic multiplier. Danantara's Rosan Roeslani and Hashim Djojohadikusumo emphasised the scale's potential to create jobs and spur growth across related industries.

Indonesia Online Media Market Projected to Reach Rp 196 Trillion by 2027

The Indonesian online media market is forecast to reach Rp 196 trillion by 2027, according to the e-Conomy SEA 2025 report, with a projected USD 10–12 billion market value. Despite this growth, much of digital content monetisation still flows to global platforms, leading to value leakage; Nuon Digital Indonesia, a Telkom Group subsidiary, aims to anchor domestic value by integrating IP development, platform distribution, digital payments, and consumer data within a Telkom-backed ecosystem.

Kakorlantas: Japek II Toll from Sadang to Bojongmangu Ready for Mudik Traffic

Polri's Kakorlantas chief says the Japek II Selatan toll from Sadang to Bojongmangu will be usable for Mudik and balik Lebaran 2026, with two repair points at Km 16 and Km 13 to be completed within days. Police will implement traffic-management measures to prevent congestion, and the Sadang–Setu segment is expected ready for balik.

Video: Cheap Chinese Steel Sold But Not SNI-Compliant, Government Urged to Act Firmly

Overproduction from China is flooding the global steel market, including Indonesia, posing a challenge to the domestic industry. The head of BAJA notes that subsidies and the US–China trade war are driving cheap Chinese steel into Southeast Asia, and calls for stricter standards and anti-dumping safeguards to protect Indonesian firms.

Six Best Huawei Smartwatches for Sports

Huawei's lineup targets sport and fitness enthusiasts, offering extensive sport modes, accurate GPS, and long battery life. The piece singles out the Huawei Watch GT 4, Watch Fit 2, Watch Fit 3, Watch GT Runner, Watch GT 3 Pro, and Watch Ultimate as top choices, and notes the forthcoming Watch Ultimate 2's diving capability. It also mentions the Band 11 Series as a visual upgrade.

Patimban Port Magnet Draws Hong Kong Investors Eyeing Subang

Hong Kong investors are shifting focus from the mainland FDI footprint to Subang in West Java, drawn by the Patimban port and the Subang Smartpolitan initiative. A March 2026 business forum highlighted Subang as a fast-track, ESG-aligned industrial hub designed to integrate logistics, digital infrastructure, and the energy transition, with BYD and other firms possibly relocating operations. The connectivity hub position reinforces Indonesia's ambition to attract cross-border investment and strengthen its position in Southeast Asian manufacturing.

Social and Economic Recovery for Disaster Victims Accelerated by PRR Task Force

The PRR Task Force confirms accelerated social and economic recovery efforts for disaster victims in Aceh, North Sumatra and West Sumatra, including temporary housing provision, housing for evacuees, and financial support to restart livelihoods, with multi-agency involvement beyond BNPB.

Beijing: The direction of China–Japan relations depends on Tokyo

China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi says the future trajectory of China–Japan ties hinges on Tokyo's leadership, notably Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. He warned that Japan's stance on Taiwan and its interpretation of collective self-defence could destabilise regional peace, reaffirming that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China. The remarks come as Beijing actions respond to Tokyo's signals on security and Taiwan, while stressing a One China policy.

Emirates resumes operations at Dubai International Airport after temporary suspension

Emirates has resumed flight operations at Dubai International Airport after a brief suspension earlier on the same day due to security concerns amid regional tensions. The halt was intended to ensure the safety of passengers, staff and crew, with authorities issuing emergency alerts as a precaution. The incident underscores ongoing security risks in the region.

BYD sales slump by 41 percent in China's domestic market

BYD's domestic sales in China fell sharply in early 2026, with two-month total down 36% year-on-year to 400,241 vehicles and February down 9.5% month-on-month to 190,190, as Lunar New Year holidays, weaker demand, and fading tax incentives weigh on demand. Geely briefly overtook BYD in early 2026, while several rival Chinese automakers posted gains; BYD's CEO Wang Chuanfu acknowledged growing competitive pressure.

China: Palestinians have the right to be free from war

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi stated that the Palestinian people have the right to be free from war and to peaceful development, stressing that the two-state solution remains the broadly recognised framework. He urged persistent international efforts towards a ceasefire, reconstruction and a comprehensive, lasting settlement, and noted Gaza’s status under the Board of Peace and the proposed International Stabilization Force, with several nations on board but Palestine excluded.

Jakarta Flood Management Seen as Still Reactive, DPRD Says No Major Breakthrough Yet

A Jakarta DPRD member from the PSI faction argues that recurring floods show current measures are reactive and fail to tackle root causes. He cites dredging, pumps, and limited normalisation as insufficient, urging a comprehensive, modern drainage system and integrated river management, and questions the governor's strategy for long-term, decisive leadership.

Man Dies After Falling From PIM 2 Mall; Witness Says Victim Was Breathing and Convulsing

A man died after falling to the lower level of Pondok Indah Mall 2 in South Jakarta. Witnesses reported the victim was still breathing and convulsing after the fall, while police described the incident as a suspected suicide, with investigations ongoing. The incident occurred around 1:00 p.m. local time on 8 March 2026 as crowds moved through the mall.

Satpol PP crackdown on illegal alcohol sellers in Tebet and Kebayoran Baru

South Jakarta's Satpol PP conducted operations in Tebet and Kebayoran Baru, seizing hundreds of bottles of alcohol from unauthorised sellers, and requiring shop owners to sign statements not to sell without a licence. The agency will maintain periodic surveillance during Ramadan to ensure compliance with regulations.

World Women's Day Highlights the Urgency of Dementia Prevention for Older Women

World Women's Day 2026, themed Give to Gain, is used to spotlight the health of older women and the urgency of dementia prevention, as women bear a larger share of dementia. The Lancet Commission underscores modifiable risk factors and preventive strategies, with rising dementia burdens in low- and middle-income countries, including Southeast Asia; the piece urges gender-sensitive prevention and investment in Indonesia's health system.

China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi Sets Out Five Principles for Iran Peace, Urges Ceasefire

China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi reaffirmed Beijing's push for a swift ceasefire in the Iran crisis and warned that military force offers no durable stability in the Middle East. He outlined five guiding principles for the international community and suggested China is prepared to play a more active mediation role as tensions rise following the US-Israel strikes.

BNPB supplies basic needs to refugees in huntara Beutong Ateuh, Nagan Raya

The Indonesian disaster agency BNPB, with BPBA and BPBD Nagan Raya, has provided basic essentials to residents living in temporary shelters in Beutong Ateuh, Nagan Raya. The aid includes staples such as rice, cooking oil, eggs and instant noodles, as well as mattresses, blankets and stoves. Authorities are also working to restore electricity to shelter sites as part of ongoing relief efforts.

PRR Task Force Accelerates Repair of Thousands of Disaster-Affected Schools, Here Are the Stages

The PRR task force in Indonesia aims to repair thousands of schools damaged by hydrometeorological disasters in Aceh, North Sumatra and West Sumatra. Schools will be categorised by damage level and repaired in stages, while learning continues in the meantime, with heavy damage schools using emergency facilities such as tents. Around 3,700 educational units across the three provinces require further attention, coordinated by Kemendikdasmen and Kemenag.

BGN Urges the SPPG Not to React Reflexively to Wild Narratives on Social Media: Focus on Quality

BGN calls on the SPPG to avoid reflexive responses to misinformation about the MBG programme on social media, emphasising the need for accuracy and quality. By citing viral claims that were later shown to be inaccurate—such as a supposed minimal MBG menu, misidentified schools, and a community hajatan-linked incident—the agency stresses governance and sanitation standards in MBG kitchens.

PRR Task Force Focuses on Restoring Social and Economic Conditions Post-Disaster in Sumatra

Indonesia's PRR Task Force says it is prioritising the restoration of social and economic conditions for disaster-affected communities across Aceh, North Sumatra and West Sumatra. The package includes temporary and permanent housing, family economic support (Rp3 million per household and Rp5 million per family), a Rp15,000 per person per day living allowance for three months, and a push to improve data accuracy through local governments and BNPB.

Fuel-Saving Amid Crisis as the Philippines Adopts a Four-Day Working Week

The Philippines' President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced a temporary four-day working week for several executive agencies starting 9 March, in response to rising global fuel costs tied to Middle East tensions. The measure aims to reduce electricity and fuel use by 10-20%, restricts non-essential travel, and will require agencies to publish internal guidelines; private sector responses urged caution and industry-specific consultation.

Police confirm a man fell from the third floor of PIM 2, South Jakarta

The Metro Jaya Police confirmed that a man fell from the third floor of Pondok Indah Mall (PIM) 2 in South Jakarta on Sunday. The victim, initials AYA, aged 32, was taken to Fatmawati Hospital for treatment, and Kebayoran Lama Police are investigating the chronology and cause of the incident; the event occurred around 13:00 WIB, and a social media post previously circulated about the incident.

Taxi sinks into a pothole on Rasuna Said Street due to water pooling

A Bluebird taxi became stuck in a pothole on Jalan H.R. Rasuna Said, South Jakarta, after heavy rain, with the hole hidden by surface water. The incident, recorded on a mobile phone and circulated on social media, involved the taxi’s front wheels and a subsequent tow around 10:00 local time; the driver was unharmed. Blue Bird has not yet responded to the query from the press.

Stock transactions worth Rp107 trillion as digital investors rise

Stockbit, a stock-investment platform, recorded Rp107 trillion in trades by February 2026, a sixfold year-on-year increase from Rp17 trillion in the same period in 2025. The surge signals rapid adoption of digital investment technology and rising investor confidence in platform-based trading, reinforcing Stockbit's status as a leading Indonesian platform. Bibit, the mutual fund and bond app, also posted strong growth with about two million downloads in the past year and around 1.7 million active portfolios.

Karawang Police Ensure Cap Go Meh Parade Passes Off Safely

In Karawang, police say the Cap Go Meh 2577/2026 parade in the urban area of Karawang Regency ran safely on Sunday. Police said they maintained maximum security measures to ensure proceedings were orderly for around 100 participants, with prayers and a Gotong Toa Pe Kong cultural procession included.

Meranti Islands Police Resort's Fun Night Run to Engage Community; Police Chief: Police Are Friends of the People

The Meranti Islands Police Resort hosted the Fun Night Run 'Go Sprint Go Green' centred on the Traffic Directorate forecourt, drawing around 3,000 participants from various segments of the community. The event, part of the Green Policing programme, was pitched as a means to strengthen ties between the police and the public, promote health and environmental awareness, and provide positive spaces for youth. It concluded with prize-giving around 00:30 WIB, with the organisers and security personnel reporting a safe, orderly, and festive atmosphere.

BRI Group Synergy Drives Consolidated Profit Growth: Subsidiaries Become Pillars ...

BRI Group reports robust performance with subsidiaries contributing to the consolidation, as total assets of BRI Group subsidiaries grew 23.3% YoY to Rp267 trillion and net profit rose 16.1% YoY to Rp10.38 trillion by Q4 2025. The company highlights strong cross‑unit synergies, with subsidiaries accounting for 18.2% of consolidated net income and 12.51% of consolidated assets, under its BRIVolution Reignite strategy.

China believes the UN still needs to be defended

China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi has reaffirmed that the United Nations should be preserved and strengthened, arguing that its core role must be upheld even if imperfect. His comments come as the United States withdraws funding from multiple UN agencies and the broader question of global governance reforms gains traction, with China promoting the Global Governance Initiative and greater participation from the Global South.

MUI Insists Halal Certification Is an Obligation and the State Must Protect the Muslim Community

The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) reiterates that halal certification is mandatory for many products, expanding regulatory coverage toward 2031. It argues halal is a fundamental principle of the Sharia-based economy and that the state must provide certainty to avoid grey areas, while extending labeling and certification to a wider range of products by 2026.

Ali Larijani says the US and Israel aim to split Iran into several parts

Ali Larijani, secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, accuses the United States and Israel of seeking to sow chaos inside Iran to fracture the country. He also claims US soldiers have been captured by Iranian authorities, as tensions rise after February 2026 air strikes that hit Tehran, amid reports of the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and escalating regional instability.

Fish seller in Badung robbed; gold necklace ripped from neck during snatching

A 64-year-old fish trader, Siti Juariyah, was robbed in Badung when a thief snatched her gold necklace, tearing it from her neck. The incident, captured on CCTV, shows the suspect fleeing on a black Honda PCX; the victim sustained a loss of around Rp 1 million as part of the necklace was taken. Police have examined the crime scene and CCTV footage as they investigate to identify the perpetrator.

Parking and Street Vending on the Cikini Station Footpath: Repeated Prohibitions Violated

Authorities say sidewalk parking around Cikini Station breaches Perda 5 of 2024 and disrupts pedestrians. Enforcement has been conducted in joint operations with Satpol PP and other agencies, but field observations show motorcycles and street vendors still clogging the footpath, narrowing space for pedestrians; the issue underscores ongoing challenges in urban mobility management near Cikini Station.

Rainy Season Still Underway; Eid Mudik Travellers Urged to Exercise Greater Caution

As Eid al-Fitr mudik in mid-March 2026 approaches, authorities urge travellers to stay vigilant as the rainy season persists across parts of Indonesia. Heavy rain has already disrupted major routes such as the Pantura corridor, underscoring the need to monitor weather forecasts and ensure vehicles are in good condition to reduce the risk of accidents.

Public Works Minister: Medan–Sibolga road ready to handle Eid al-Fitr 2026 homecoming traffic

Indonesia's Public Works Minister announced that the Medan–Sibolga national road is prepared to handle Mudik and return traffic for Eid al-Fitr 2026. While field monitoring shows only a few sections needing repair, there are several landslide sites in North Tapanuli Regency that are being cleared, and a command post has been established to accelerate response and keep traffic flowing. He urged travellers to prepare their vehicles and rest if tired to ensure safe journeys.

Hezbollah Launches 20 Rockets at Israel, Targeting Iron Dome Radar in Haifa

Hezbollah announced it launched at least 20 waves of rocket and drone strikes into northern Israel, including attacks on the Iron Dome radar at Kiryat Eliezer near Haifa and a Tel Hashomer base, with evacuation warnings issued to Nahariya and Kiryat Shmona. The strikes come amid a widening regional conflict following Israeli and US actions against Iran, as Israel intensifies operations in Lebanon.

1,202 flood-affected residents in Bandar Lampung receive aid

A total of 1,202 residents affected by floods in Bandar Lampung City have received government assistance consisting of rice and Rp1 million in cash. The aid targets those with homes directly affected, as authorities coordinate data collection and plan drainage improvements, while cross-regional cooperation with adjacent districts is emphasized.

Messi earns up to Rp1.2 trillion per year at Inter Miami

Messi earns around US$70-80 million per year at Inter Miami, including equity and incentives, prompting the club to maximise sponsorships and media deals. Inter Miami's value has risen to about US$1.45 billion, and Messi's presence has coincided with multiple trophies and international qualifications, underscoring the strategic business impact of big-name signings. The club’s executives emphasise careful planning and partnerships behind the investment.

Flooding in Pela Mampang, South Jakarta Nears Two Metres as Water Recedes

Floodwaters peaked at about 1.9 metres in Pela Mampang, South Jakarta, affecting around 40 households and displacing seven residents. By 3:00 pm WIB the waters had receded to around 10 centimetres, with authorities and emergency services maintaining on-site readiness as clean-up begins. The incident highlights recurrent flood risks in Jakarta’s riverfront districts and ongoing evacuation efforts.

Cak Imin Urges the Public to Keep Exercising Regularly Even During Ramadan

During the Festival Jejak Jajanan Nusantara in Gelora Bung Karno, Jakarta, on 8 February 2026, Cak Imin urged Indonesians to maintain regular exercise during Ramadan. He praised rising enthusiasm for sport across the country, saying it is good news for public health. He also joked about a friend, Mr Bambang, whose slimmer physique underscores the benefits of staying active.

Wang Yi: Lack of China–US cooperation triggers misunderstandings

Wang Yi warned that the China–US relationship affects the interests of many parties and the world order; without cooperation, misunderstandings, misjudgments, conflicts and confrontations could emerge, damaging global peace. He spoke at his annual press conference in Beijing on the sidelines of the Fourth Session of the 14th National People's Congress.

268 flood-survivor households in Nagan Raya, Aceh, have begun occupying huntara

268 of 647 displaced households have started occupying government-built huntara, while 379 remain in tents as BNPB continues aid. The programme uses two schemes—vendor-built huntara and self-built on villagers' land—and is intended to move all evacuees into government-provided housing once complete, underscoring ongoing central and local government support.

Malfunctioning Computer Button Triggers Catastrophic Nuclear Explosion, 60,000 Dead

An account of the Chernobyl disaster emphasises the essential role of rigorous safety standards and competent personnel in nuclear development. It details how a malfunctioning SCRAM-related control and flawed testing procedures led to a reactor explosion and massive radiation release, underscoring the need for robust regulation and oversight.

Myths and Facts About the Measles Vaccine in 2026: Safety, Ingredients, and Side Effects

Indonesia experienced a notable surge in measles cases in early 2026, with dozens of outbreaks across provinces. Ministry of Health data show most severe complications and deaths occur in those with no immunisation history, underscoring the danger of low coverage driven by misinformation. Health authorities emphasise vaccination as the only way to achieve herd immunity, and advise booster doses for those with incomplete vaccination or in outbreak areas, while warning against myths about measles vaccination.

5 Best Online Qur'an Apps for Quran Study

The piece outlines online Qur'an apps as smartphone tools for reading, listening, and studying the Qur'an, with features ranging from full text, translations and tafsir to audio recitations and prayer aids. It notes the popularity of Indonesian-made apps and lists well-known options such as Muslim Pro, Quran for Android, Quran Majeed, MyQuran, and NU Online, emphasising their comprehensive features and ease of use.

China and Russia reaffirm steadfast commitment to non-alignment and non-confrontation

China and Russia emphasise mutual respect for core interests and pledge to non-alignment and non-confrontation, saying they avoid provocation or external pressure. Foreign Minister Wang Yi, speaking on the sidelines of the NPC session in Beijing, underscored strategic stability and high mutual trust between the two nations.

Pertamina's response to the queuing at Medan petrol stations

Queues at Medan's SPBU surged after a minister suggested national stock could run to 20 days due to Hormuz Strait disruption. Pertamina and regional authorities sought to dispel panic, insisting supply was safe and continuing distribution. They urged calm, warned against panic buying, and promised additional tanker capacity to maintain supply through Lebaran.

Police Chief Checks Readiness of Facilities and Personnel for Disasters Ahead of Mudik

Indonesian National Police Chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo has checked the readiness of facilities, infrastructures, and personnel to handle potential natural disasters to ensure smooth Mudik travel for Lebaran 2026. The inspection, conducted after a rally of ojol riders and public order officers at Bumi Sriwijaya Stadium in Palembang, emphasised ongoing readiness and rapid disaster response, with weather as a key consideration.

Today's Iftar Schedule in Jakarta: Full of Gratitude as Maghrib Arrives

Jakarta Muslims observe the Ramadan iftar timetable for 18 Ramadan 1447 Hijri, with Maghrib at 18:12 WIB. The piece cites Hadith stressing hastening to break the fast and invites readers to use Republika's Imsakiyah and Digital Qur'an resources. It combines practical timekeeping with spiritual guidance and encourages positive activities after prayer.

KAI Jakarta: Lebaran train ticket occupancy reaches 58 percent

During the Lebaran travel period, KAI Daop 1 Jakarta sold 625,231 tickets from 1,076,196 seats for Gambir and Pasar Senen departures, reaching a 58% occupancy. The highest sales occurred 11–20 March 2026, with major peak dates and promotions including Mudik discounts and a Flash Sale via the Access by KAI app; government stimulus also offered discounts for economy-class passengers. Nationally about 1.2 million seats were prepared, with Daop 1 Jakarta offering 329,000 seats, while services operated daily and included additional Gambir and Pasar Senen trips and four free KA Motor trips.

Tangsel Floods: City Government Deploys Joint Team to Evacuate Residents

Following heavy rainfall across South Tangerang, authorities mobilised a multi-agency evacuation response, prioritising the elderly and children in flood-hit areas. The operation used rubber boats and assets from multiple agencies, with ongoing monitoring and shelter provisions to safeguard residents against rising waters.

Nuzulul Quran Observance: Bamusi Holds Thanksgiving for Megawati's Honorary Doctorate

At the Bamusi-organised Nuzulul Quran event, leaders lauded Megawati Soekarnoputri’s statesmanship and national message on the world stage. Basarah said she expressed gratitude after receiving an honorary doctorate from Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University in Riyadh, by visiting the Prophet’s tomb in Madinah and performing Umrah in Makkah, accompanied by her two children, Puan Maharani and Prananda Prabowo.

Sunday Afternoon Floods Still Inundate 115 RTs and 16 Roads in Jakarta

Heavy rainfall left parts of Jakarta flooded, with authorities initially reporting 115 RTs and 16 roads affected as of 15:00 on Sunday, later revised to 75 RTs and 19 roads across West, East and South Jakarta. The Jakarta BPBD is coordinating pumping and drainage while evacuations continue, and residents are urged to stay alert and call 112 in emergencies.

Education Minister: Identity Forgery a Challenge to Rules on Children's Gadget Use

Education Minister for Basic and Secondary Education Abdul Mu'ti acknowledged technical challenges in enforcing the new rules restricting children’s gadget use, notably the risk of identity forgery when creating social media accounts. He welcomed the PP TUNAS implementing regulation but warned that effective enforcement will require parental oversight and education, while recognising that gadget use also has educational benefits.

Israel Attacks Iran's Military Infrastructure, Targeting F-14 Fighter Jets at Isfahan

Israel has launched a major air campaign against strategic Iranian military sites, including Isfahan International Airport, with reports that Iranian Air Force F-14s were targeted. The strike signals a sharp escalation in the Middle East conflict, as Tehran has not yet confirmed casualties; the broader confrontation follows a US-Israeli operation at the end of February 2026.

I Used the Infinix Xpad Edge Tablet for Two Weeks for Work — Can It Replace a Laptop?

After around two weeks using the Infinix Xpad Edge as my primary work device, I found the bundled keyboard and stylus, together with a 13.2-inch eye-friendly display, made it a credible laptop alternative for many tasks. The keyboard's touchpad improved laptop-like usability, and eye comfort remained strong over long sessions, though the touchpad can be imprecise when hands are sweaty. While not perfect, the experience suggests the Xpad Edge could replace a laptop for light to moderate workloads, though it may fall short for heavier editing or multitasking.

Polda Metro Pastikan Hak Richard Lee Terpenuhi selama Ditahan

The Jakarta Metropolitan Police say that Richard Lee's rights are being protected during detention, with no request yet for a detention postponement; he remains with other detainees at the Metro Jaya Police detention centre. The case relates to alleged violations of consumer protection laws tied to cosmetics and beauty products and care.

China condemns US attack on Iran and the law of the jungle

China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi condemned the escalation of the Middle East conflict triggered by the US and Israel's strikes on Iran, saying the world should not revert to the law of the jungle. He spoke during Beijing's annual Two Sessions and urged Washington to manage differences and avoid unnecessary interference to stabilise global affairs, emphasising the solidity of China–Russia relations amid Western criticisms over Ukraine.

Why Is Israel So Determined to Eradicate Hizbullah?

The article explains Hizbullah’s emergence as a Shiite Muslim militant and political force in Lebanon, backed by Iran, and why Israel views the group as a major threat. It traces past conflicts, UN deployments, and recent cross-border strikes that have raised fears of a broader regional confrontation.

Today's iftar schedule in Bandung on 8 March 2026 you need to know

Bandung’s iftar times for 18 Ramadan 1447H (8 March 2026) are published, listing Imsak at 04:29 and Maghrib at 18:13 among others. The piece frames fasting as a spiritual duty and a test of self-discipline, and directs readers to credible sources for accurate times and to a digital Qur’an resource.

Why Parents Refuse the Measles Vaccine for Their Children? An Analysis of Causes and Solutions

Vaccine hesitancy in 2026 Indonesia is attributed to social media echo chambers, fear of adverse events, religious concerns, and persistent myths about autism. The article argues that addressing concerns with transparent risk–benefit information and engaging trusted community figures is essential to safeguard herd immunity and public health.

Government to build 140,000 housing units from Lippo Group donation

The Indonesian government plans to construct 140,000 vertical housing units on 30 hectares of land donated by Lippo Group founder James Riady in Cikarang, West Java, as part of the 3 Million Homes Programme. The project is a collaborative effort among government agencies, Danantara Indonesia, state-owned enterprises, and the private sector to provide affordable housing for low-income households, addressing urban land constraints and housing backlogs.

Iran Situation: Chinese Foreign Minister Says Ceasefire Should Be a Priority

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi calls for an immediate ceasefire in Iran and outlines five core principles for handling the Middle East, including respect for sovereignty, restraint, non-interference, political settlement, and constructive roles for major powers. He urged steps to halt military actions and prevent spillover beyond the region, in the context of escalating tensions following a US-Israeli attack on Iran.

KAI Sumut offers 2,700 mudik tickets at 30% discount

Under the Ramadhan Festive 2026 programme, KAI Divre I North Sumatra allocates 2,700 tickets at 30% discount to ease mudik ahead of Lebaran 2026. Discounts apply to Medan–Rantauprapat services in Executive, Business, and Economy classes, with sales opening on 9 March 2026 via Access by KAI and other channels. The scheme is part of 12,876 discounted tickets available in North Sumatra during Lebaran 2026, combining government stimulus and KAI contributions.

BNI Share Buyback Seen as Boosting Public Confidence

A plan by PT Bank Negara Indonesia (Persero) Tbk to undertake a share buyback is seen as strengthening public confidence in the national banking sector amid global economic uncertainty, while signaling the bank’s robustness despite market pressures. The buyback, funded up to Rp905.48 billion from retained earnings, will require approval at the 2026 annual general meeting, with execution possibly extending up to 12 months post-RUPS.

Roblox introduces automatic paraphrasing of profanity in in-game chats

Roblox has rolled out an AI-driven paraphrasing feature that automatically replaces offensive language in in-game chats with more polite expressions, with edits visible to the sender. The system currently targets age-verified users in the same age group and supports multiple languages, as part of broader safety measures following January's age-verification rollout and amid ongoing lawsuits over child protection in the United States.

Abundant Rice Stocks Push DPR Commission IV to Urge Export Roadmap

With rice stocks reaching 3.53 million tonnes by December 2025, Deputy Chairman Alex Indra Lukman of DPR’s Commission IV urges the government to draft a roadmap for exporting rice produced by domestic farmers. He emphasises cutting production costs, boosting quality, and addressing broken rice to unlock the global market; the issue intersects policy goals including national food self-sufficiency under President Prabowo Subianto’s agenda.

Floods submerge 573 homes in Serang City, two buildings collapse

BPBD Serang reported that moderate to heavy rainfall, coupled with drainage failures and river overflow, flooded 573 homes and caused two houses to collapse. The affected population is around 1,905 people across several districts, with the worst impacts in Kasemen. Authorities deployed emergency teams for evacuations and assessments and urged residents to stay alert to further extreme weather and potential hazards such as fallen trees and landslides.

Israel launches air strikes targeting Iranian military infrastructure

Israel says it has carried out a wave of air strikes targeting the Iranian regime's military infrastructure across Iran, including an attack on an F-14 at Isfahan International Airport. As of 07:00 GMT there has been no official comment from Iran. The report follows heightened regional tensions after a February 28 US-Israeli assault on Iran, with Tehran and its allies responding across the region.

Government Secures a 30-Hectare Land Grant for the 3 Million Homes Programme

Indonesia's government has secured a 30-hectare land grant from Lippo Group to advance the 3 Million Homes Programme, potentially delivering up to 140,000 apartment units. The plan envisions vertical housing across multiple sites and relies on cross-ministerial cooperation and diverse financing; additional locations are under consideration, including a 45-hectare site in Depok.

Study: Home Entertainment Trends Drive Growth of the Audio Equipment Market

A market study finds that home entertainment is fueling growth in the global audio equipment market, with the home entertainment segment accounting for about 65% of all soundbar usage, and Asia-Pacific among the fastest-growing regions. The trend is prompting manufacturers to launch home audio devices as families increasingly gather for Ramadan, Eid and major international sports events such as the World Cup, amid rising digital content consumption and the spread of smart TVs.

Sinar Mas Endows Qur'ans for Al-Nahdlah Islamic Boarding School

Yayasan Muslim Sinar Mas (YMSM) endows Qur'ans to the Al-Nahdlah Islamic Boarding School in Depok to encourage students to deepen their faith through Qur'anic reading, especially during Ramadan. In a symbolic handover of 1,000 Qur'ans, leaders emphasised ongoing tadarus and proper fasting; since 2008, with APP Group support, about 1.4 million Qur'ans have been distributed nationwide to religious and educational institutions, communities and even TNI-Polri units.

Get Ready: Rest Areas KM 228A and KM 229B in Cirebon Expected to Be Busy During Lebaran 2026 Mudik

Policing in Cirebon maps Rest Areas KM 228A and KM 229B as congestion hotspots during the 2026 mudik and Lebaran period. They anticipate surges in traffic at these rest stops as part of Operation Ketupat Lodaya 2026, set to run from 12 to 25 March, with a focus on security and public service, supported by inter-agency coordination and measures to protect homes left vacant by travellers.

Komdigi restricts social media access for children under 16: why?

Indonesia will limit access to social media for children under 16 from 28 March 2026 under Ministerial Regulation No. 9 of 2026, derived from Government Regulation No. 17 of 2025 (PP Tunas). The move aims to safeguard young people from online harms, positioning Indonesia as a pioneer outside Western nations in age-based restrictions on high-risk digital platforms.

Tehran Fuel Distribution Temporarily Halted After Oil Depots Attacked by the US

Fuel distribution in Tehran has been temporarily halted after attacks on oil depots by the United States and Israel. Iran says it is repairing damage to energy infrastructure, and authorities have reduced the daily fuel quota for residents with personal fuel cards, promising to revert the measure within two to three days. The strikes killed four people and damaged facilities around the capital, with fires brought under control.

A car caught fire while parked at the Cipali Toll rest area

An SUV burned out after being left parked at Rest Area KM 130 on the Cipali Toll Road. The driver was performing religious observance at the time, and the fire is suspected to have been caused by an electrical fault in the engine. Firefighters extinguished the blaze by 14:05 WIB; no casualties were reported, and authorities urged motorists to check vehicle readiness before travel.

Ahead of Eid al-Fitr, Indonesian Police Crack Down on 9 Tonnes of Expired Imported Meat

Ahead of Eid al-Fitr, the Indonesian National Police arrested and seized three trucks carrying nine tonnes of expired imported frozen meat intended for traditional markets. Investigators will probe possible involvement of other distribution networks as part of monitoring food safety and price ahead of national religious holidays.

Academic Questions Trump's Claim Iran Has Surrendered: Merely Political Rhetoric

An academic from Universitas Muhammadiyah Hamka says Donald Trump's Truth Social post claiming Iran has surrendered is little more than political rhetoric, not a reflection of the Middle East's battlefield reality. The remarks warn that unilateral declarations of victory can escalate tensions and suggest Indonesia could play a mediating role via the OKI or BRICS.

Central Kalimantan Governor Donates 20 Hectares of Private Land for Sekolah Garuda

The Governor of Central Kalimantan, Agustiar Sabran, has donated 20 hectares of private land in Kotawaringin Barat for the Sekolah Garuda project, aligning with the President's education priority programme. The move underscores support from the provincial government for strengthening education and preparing Indonesia's youth for global competitiveness, with officials highlighting strategic location and potential multiplier effects from proximity to Tanjung Puting National Park.

492 MBG Kitchens in Sumatra Temporarily Closed Over This

The suspension covers 492 MBG kitchens in Sumatra for failing to register the Hygiene and Sanitation Readiness Certificate (SLHS); operations can resume only after registration and verification are completed. The move reinforces oversight of food safety in the Free Nutritious Meals Programme, with particular focus on schools.

One Year of Bullion Running, National Gold Management and Customers Continue to Increase - VOI

Indonesia marks the first anniversary of its bullion business, Bank Emas Indonesia, with strong growth in customers and gold assets as part of a deeper national gold ecosystem. Customer numbers rose from 3.2 million to 5.6 million, and gold savings surged to 19.25 tons, bringing bullion management to about 40.59 tons (roughly Rp102 trillion) by February 2026. The government and regulator launched strategic steps including the IBMA formation, a 2026–2031 road map by OJK, and policy measures to strengthen the ecosystem, amid solid 2025 growth of 5.11% and projected 5.4–5.6% for 2026.

Video: BPOM Speeds Up Drug and Food Marketing Authorisations, But Standards Remain High

BPOM has joined the WHO Listed Authority list, signalling global recognition of Indonesia’s drug and food regulation. The status could boost Indonesia’s export prospects for medicines and vaccines, as oversight is conducted by a WHO-recognised body. BPOM says reforms will continue to accelerate market authorisations while maintaining high standards to support domestic industry.

Not Just a Rash: Why the Measles Vaccine Is a 'Lifesaver' in 2026

In 2026, Indonesia tightens measles immunisation guidelines following reports of outbreaks, with the government ensuring stock of more than 15 million vaccine doses to accelerate vaccination under recommendations from the Indonesian Paediatric Association (IDAI) and the Ministry of Health. The article outlines available vaccines (MR, MMR, MMRV), the latest immunisation schedule for children, and advice for adults, stressing the importance of herd immunity and ongoing vaccination education.

More than 25,000 MBG kitchens inspected, with some halted immediately for being unfit

The National Nutrition Agency strengthens oversight of the Free Nutritious Food Program, with large-scale MBG kitchen inspections across eight regions and accelerated SLHS certification. By late inspection, 25,061 SPPG kitchens have been checked, with some sites given warnings or halted for sanitation non-compliance; kitchens not registering within 30 days of operation may face sanctions.

Fasting Is a Shield for Muslims

Fasting is described as a shield in Islam, protecting believers from base desires and from the punishment of the Fire of Hell, and is celebrated as a pathway to virtue during Ramadan. Hadiths cited from Prophet Muhammad explain its protective role, with varying interpretations of what it shields against.

AI dan Ekonomi Digital Diprediksi Jadi Mesin Pertumbuhan, Bisakah Dorong Ekonomi Indonesia ke 8%?

AI and the digital economy are being seen as a new growth engine for Indonesia, with projections that the digital economy will reach nearly US$100 billion by 2025 and digital transactions will hit Rp2,900 trillion in the same period. The article discusses potential productivity gains, job creation, and SME empowerment, while noting challenges in infrastructure, data security, and human resource skills that Indonesia must address to reach higher growth.

As the host of APEC 2026, China will turn plans into action

China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi says that as host of APEC 2026, Beijing will turn its Asia-Pacific community-building plans into concrete actions, converting blueprints into reality. The Shenzhen summit in November 2026 will prioritise openness, innovation and cooperation and outline steps towards the Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific (FTAAP) and regional connectivity, while promoting digitalisation, artificial intelligence and environmental initiatives through hundreds of events nationwide.

Wang Yi: China and Russia Have a Consensus on International and Regional Issues

China and Russia share a strategic consensus on major international and regional issues and are forging the closest strategic cooperation, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said at a press conference during the Fourth Session of the 14th NPC. The statement comes amid Middle East tensions after Israeli and US strikes on Iran, with Iran replying by attacking Israeli territory and US military facilities in the region.

PMI Tangerang deploys 27 personnel to evacuate flood-affected residents

PMI Kota Tangerang deployed 27 personnel as a rapid response to floods affecting nine districts. Evacuations were carried out in Duren Village and Periuk Damai, with water depths reported up to around three metres; BPBD reports nine districts affected by floods ranging from 40 centimetres to 150 centimetres.

Minister Thohir seeks private sector support for sports advancement

Indonesia’s Sports Minister, Erick Thohir, says cross-sector collaboration is essential for growing sport, arguing private enterprises and public support must supplement government work. He cited Bank Central Asia’s backing of tennis and swimming and Ciputra Group’s involvement in golf as concrete examples of private sector coaching and ecosystem development. Thohir said such partnerships are key to boosting Indonesian athletes’ international competitiveness and building a more sustainable national sports industry.

Rohil Police Chief and Deputy Regent Take Part in Night Run to Curb Street Racing and Brawls

The Rokan Hilir Police Chief and the Deputy Regent joined a Ramadan-era Night Run, 'Go Sprint Go Green', to promote healthy living and deter negative activities such as illegal street racing. The 100-metre event drew around 700 spectators, featured friendly races between officials, and offered prizes and Go Green saplings to winners.

Prices of onions and tobacco rise as market conditions depict hardship

As Ramadan approaches, consumer demand in Medan is weaker than last year, reflecting squeezed incomes amid very low rubber prices. Meat sales are slightly livelier, but overall prices for staples are stable; coconut, onions and tobacco have risen, though traders expect onion and tobacco prices to fall after Ramadan begins.

In Honour of International Women's Day, Here Are Three Inspiring Stories of Indonesian Migrant Workers

Aidha, in partnership with Campaign for Good, highlights three Indonesian migrant workers selected through a community vetting process for the #BersamaBerdaya campaign, backed by grants and storytelling training. The initiative empowers women with financial education, peer learning, and community support, and features the first Duta Berdaya, Fitria Hendrawati, whose journey from hardship to overseas work underlines the programme's aims.

Today Only! 75-inch TV, Fridges to ACs: Big Discounts at Transmart

Transmart is hosting its Full Day Sale, offering major discounts on household electronics across Indonesia. Highlights include Polytron air conditioner, fridge, 75-inch LED TV, and a Sharp washing machine, with discounts up to 50% + 20%, plus bank-card promotions. The sale runs on Sunday, 8 March 2026, from store opening until 22:00, with additional benefits for customers using specific bank cards.

Distressing! Policewoman steals customer's money at beauty salon in Rote Ndao, East Nusa Tenggara

Policewoman Brigadier YM is accused of stealing Rp 1,103,000 from a customer at a beauty salon in Rote Ndao, East Nusa Tenggara. She reportedly confessed during police clarification, and the money has been seized as evidence. The case is being handled by Propam Presisi Polres Rote Ndao, with possible disciplinary or ethics-code action pending directions from Polda NTT, and she has not yet been detained.

Singkawang Airport Passengers Show Positive Growth Trend

Passenger movements at Singkawang Airport have surged since it opened in November 2024, rising more than twentyfold by December 2025. Official data from the BPS Kota Singkawang show arrivals reached 8,851 and departures 8,057 in December 2025, on a single domestic route to Jakarta operated by two national carriers. The trend indicates growing mobility and could encourage more flights and new routes in the future.

Lawyer Claims Five Procedural Flaws in Yaqut's Suspect Status in Hajj Quota Case

The former Indonesian Minister of Religious Affairs' lawyer alleges five formal defects in the KPK's designation of Yaqut Cholil as a suspect in the Hajj quota corruption case, citing premature loss calculations, leadership-level designation, and conflicting legal bases. The pretrial seeks to overturn three Sprindik and to safeguard due process and legal certainty.

Richard Lee Detained as Police Say His Rights Are Being Respected in Detention

The Jakarta Metropolitan Police say Dr Richard Lee's detention rights are being observed, including the right to fast and sahur; there has been no request for remand. He is detained for allegedly obstructing investigations into consumer protection and beauty products cases, with charges under Health and Consumer Protection laws.

Startup Secures Funding, Sets Out to Combine Entertainment, AI and Digital Advertising

PhotoBebaz, an Indonesian interactive photobooth startup, has announced its first external funding, facilitated by Fundhub, to accelerate expansion in 2026. The company aims to merge entertainment, AI and digital advertising within its integrated platform and plans new locations in major Indonesian cities, plus AI/AR features and stronger creative-technology teams.

Indonesia's BKKBN accelerates stunting reduction in Pontianak

During a working visit to Pontianak, Minister Wihaji emphasised that strengthening the Family Companions Team (TPK) is central to speeding up stunting reduction, praising central–regional cooperation on the Bangga Kencana programme. The West Kalimantan BKKBN provincial office and Pontianak City Government were commended for their collaboration, with a focus on integrity and moving towards a Corruption-Free Area (WBK). The consolidation aims to boost TPK capacity to educate, counsel families, and ensure access to health services, nutrition, and family planning.

ACC and Astra Foundation Collaborate to Channel Revolving Funds to SMEs

ACC will channel Rp100 million through a revolving fund to 20 women-led SMEs in Jabodetabek, with an interest-free 12-month repayment. The programme, launched with Yayasan Astra on International Women's Day, also includes a digital marketing workshop and private mentoring to boost competitiveness.

Disaster Strikes, Buleleng Regency Yet to Declare a State of Emergency

The Buleleng Regency Government has not yet declared a state of emergency after flash floods struck five districts in the Gumi Panji Sakti, causing fatalities and damaging hundreds of homes. Authorities say response is continuing in an emergency-like manner as they study whether to declare an official disaster status.

Surah Ghafir: Meaning, Asbab al-Nuzul, Key Messages, and Virtues of Reciting It

Surah Ghafir, the fortieth chapter of Juz 24 in the Qur'an, comprises 85 verses. It is a Makki surah beginning with Ha Mim and is noted for weaving mercy with divine sternness, offering solace to believers seeking forgiveness. The piece outlines its core messages, its link to the Ha-Mim group, notable hadith references about recitation, and why it is sometimes called Al-Mu'min.

JK Emphasises Indonesia May Back BoP If Trump Recognises Palestine

Indonesia's former vice president Jusuf Kalla says Jakarta could back the Board of Peace (BoP) if it demonstrably advances peace in Palestine, including recognition of a Palestinian state as part of a two-state solution. He warns that international support must be substantive rather than symbolic, and notes US veto power complicates progress. The article also references renewed scrutiny of Indonesia's BoP membership amid US-Israel actions against Iran and reports of Iran's Supreme Leader's death following the strikes.

Java and Sumatra Toll Tariff Information and 30% Discount Schedule for Mudik

The Indonesian Toll Road Regulatory Agency has published revised toll tariffs for Java and Sumatra for the 2026 Lebaran mudik period, including estimated charges for journeys from Jakarta to major cities. It also announces a 30% discount program on selected routes during Mudik, with explicit dates, routes, and targeted segments.

The Link Between Fasting and Autophagy: How Cells Clean Themselves Naturally

Fasting triggers autophagy, a natural cellular cleaning process activated by a drop in insulin and a rise in glucagon, with AMPK acting as a key switch. The article explains the mechanism, potential brain and metabolic benefits, and cautions against unproven detox products, while recommending consistent intermittent fasting for long-term health and longevity.

Ten Meanings of Dreaming About a Person Dying, a Sign of Maturity

Dreams of someone dying are commonly interpreted as symbolic of ending a life phase and beginning a change. They can reflect longing for someone close, fears for loved ones, or personal growth, and are generally considered the mind's way of processing emotions rather than foretelling the future.

Rising Interest in Gold Investment as BSI Manages 22.5 Tonnes of Gold via Bullion Bank

Interest in gold investment is rising as bullion bank services expand in Indonesia. Within a year of the February 2025 launch, BSI reports 22.5 tonnes of gold under management and growth in Generation Z customers, with total BSI customers exceeding 23 million in 2025. The government-backed bullion bank programme aims to strengthen the national gold market and broaden gold’s role in finance.

Kudus BPBD Tackles Eight Landslide Sites and Reopens Road Access for Residents

Eight landslide sites across Rahtawu, Menawan and Soco in Kudus were reported on Saturday night after heavy rainfall. A coordinated response involving BPBD Kudus, volunteers, and security forces cleared the debris and reopened the road to Dukuh Semliro by around 12:45 WIB. Authorities urged residents to stay vigilant during heavy rain and avoid travel unless urgent.

Impact of Iranian Missile Strikes: Indian Journalist Goes Viral Revealing Scale of Destruction in Israel

An Indian journalist, Brijmohan Singh, head of Sadhna Plus News, has gone viral for alleging extensive damage in Israel from Iranian missiles and for claiming Israel imposes strict media censorship. Singh's account, from returning to India after covering a visit by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, also cites restrictions on filming casualties and hospital access, and questions the reliability of Israel's defence systems amid reported casualties.

Homesickness for Hometown Hampered by Floods in Jakarta

Flooding across several areas of Jakarta has forced residents to curb their plans to return to their hometowns for Lebaran. Hilman of Petogogan says he would normally mudik to Cirebon, but flood conditions may delay his travel; the decision will depend on weather over the coming days, as others like Dul also adjust their Lebaran plans.

The Meaning of Dzul Jalali Wal Ikram: Evidence, Virtue of Dhikr, and Its Practice

This article explains the Islamic significance of the name Dzul Jalali Wal Ikram, one of the 99 Asmaul Husna. It outlines its Qur'anic and hadith basis, its status as part of Ismullah Al-A'zham, and offers guidance on when and how to recite it, along with the belief in its efficacy when practised with faith.

Academic says Trump's statement on Iran is mere political rhetoric

An Indonesian academic argues that Donald Trump's statements about Iran are purely political rhetoric and do not reflect the on-the-ground realities. Responding to Trump's Truth Social post, which labeled Iran as the 'Loser of the Middle East', the expert warns that such rhetoric could prolong conflict, while suggesting that diplomacy—and Indonesia's potential mediating role—might be needed.

Skeleton of woman found in Depok; living with her 'siri' husband

Police in Cinere, Depok, found skeletal remains of a 56-year-old woman identified as DH in Meruyung, Limo. The victim reportedly lived with her 'siri' husband whose whereabouts are unknown, and several belongings including a Suzuki Address motorcycle and the victim's mobile phone are missing. The case is under police investigation.

Mudik with a Hybrid Car? The Complete Guide to Long-Distance Travel

The article provides practical guidance for travellers using plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs) during the homecoming period, focusing on battery management, home charging, and planning charging stops along the Trans-Java route. It emphasises maintaining the petrol engine and hybrid system, and notes the flexibility of PHEVs for long journeys with mode settings optimized for efficiency.

UAE Tug Sinks in the Strait of Hormuz, Three Indonesian Crew Members Missing

Three Indonesian crew members are still missing after a UAE-flagged tugboat, Musaffah 2, sank in the Strait of Hormuz following an incident during heightened regional tensions. One Indonesian survivor is receiving intensive care in Oman, while authorities search for the remaining missing crew as investigations continue.

Indonesian House of Representatives member calls for concrete steps to respond to BBM price increases

Indonesian DPR member Shanty Alda Nathalia urges the government to prepare concrete measures to address rising BBM prices ahead of Lebaran 2026. She warns that BBM price adjustments could raise transport and logistics costs, potentially pushing up prices of essential goods and services, especially during Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr, and calls for energy supply stability and policy balance to protect purchasing power.

Police Confirm Man Who Fell from Third Floor of South Jakarta Mall Died; Suspected Suicide

A man fell from the third floor of a shopping mall in the Pondok Indah area of South Jakarta and died at the scene. Police say the victim is suspected to have committed suicide, with authorities citing that he leapt from the mall’s third floor and that the incident occurred on Sunday, 8 March 2026, at 1:00 pm local time.

Nintendo sues US government over import tariff policy

Nintendo of America has filed a lawsuit against the United States government over import tariffs, arguing they harm the company. The action cites a February Supreme Court decision upholding lower court rulings that struck down the authority to impose tariffs under the IEEPA, and seeks refunds for tariffs collected unlawfully. The case comes as Nintendo faces potential price pressures from RAM shortages and other tariff-related headwinds.

MBG Budget Under Threat of Cuts Amid Oil Prices, Says Head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN)

The Indonesian government is weighing options to trim the MBG budget if a surge in global oil prices widens the 2026 deficit beyond the safe 3%. The head of the National Nutrition Agency (BGN) says no official directive has been issued yet, but the agency will cooperate with fiscal policy decisions. The finance minister warned that an oil-price shock could push the deficit to 3.6% of GDP and suggested MBG-related savings, though not at the expense of direct meal provision.

West Java Provincial Government Opens THR Complaint Post; Companies Must Pay THR Seven Days Before Eid al-Fitr

The West Java provincial government has opened a consultation and complaint post for religious holiday allowance (THR) to ensure employers pay THR to workers, with a deadline of seven days before Eid al-Fitr. The service post operates at the West Java Disnakertrans office in Bandung, with additional complaint channels through five regional Labour Supervision units (UPTD Pengawasan Ketenagakerjaan). Complaints received will be followed up by labour inspectors through on-site checks at companies. Last year, 344 THR violation complaints were recorded, mainly from the tourism sector, attributed to economic pressures on firms.

Purbaya: Tax Revenue Grows 30.4% to Rp245.1 Trillion

The Indonesian Ministry of Finance reported that tax receipts in February 2026 rose by 30.4% year-on-year to Rp245.1 trillion, accounting for 10.4% of the 2026 APBN target. By the end of February, state revenue reached Rp358 trillion while expenditure stood at Rp493.8 trillion, leaving the APBN in a Rp135.7 trillion deficit. The government faces scrutiny from Fitch Ratings over its debt outlook, but Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa says fiscal conditions remain under control.

Autophagy: A Medical Guide to Why a 16-Hour Fast Is Important for Cellular Regeneration

Autophagy is explained as the body's self-cleaning process activated by fasting, especially after the 12-16 hour mark when insulin falls and AMPK rises. The piece argues that this biological detoxification can reduce risks of neurodegenerative diseases, improve insulin sensitivity, and support healthier ageing, contrasting it with commercial detox products. It also stresses the need for balanced nutrition to remain energised and focused in daily life and worship.

Indonesia’s debt alarm sounds as Debt Service Ratio breaches 42% — what does it mean?

Indonesia’s Debt Service Ratio (DSR) climbed to 42.3% in 2024, indicating that roughly 42% of state revenue goes to debt servicing. The piece argues that high DSR tightens fiscal space, increases vulnerability to shocks, and should be considered alongside the debt-to-GDP ratio when assessing fiscal risk.

BGN Orders SPPGs to Upload Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) Menus on Social Media Daily

Indonesia's National Nutrition Agency has instructed its partner SPPGs to upload MBG menus, nutritional content and prices on social media as part of transparency, with recipients including pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, infants, and students. The public may lodge complaints directly with SPPG if menus are deemed unfit, and information may be shared on social media to spur service improvements.

From SEO to GEO: A Brand Strategy in the Generative AI Era

The piece explains the shift from SEO to GEO as brands aim to appear in AI-generated answers, as explained by Tessar Napitupulu of Arfadia. It notes that brands must understand how AI constructs answers and recommends information to users, and provides context on Arfadia's Sidia project and the founder's career path as examples of adaptation.

80 SPPGs in Solo Raya Dominated by 1–5 Suppliers, BGN Urges Operational Improvements

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has begun an operational review of the SPPG units across Solo Raya after finding managerial and kitchen facility deficiencies that could affect the Free Nutritious Meals Programme (MBG). About 80 SPPGs rely on just 1–5 suppliers, prompting calls for more open and competitive supplier management and upgrades to facilities; a one-month deadline has been set for improvements.

Ramadan at SRMA 1 Aceh Besar: Shared Sahur and Rotating Kultum

At SRMA 1 Aceh Besar, 100 students observed Ramadan with a programme combining communal sahur, rotating kultum talks and congregational prayers, reflecting a focus on spiritual development and community building in a boarding school for underprivileged families. The school adjusted timetables to maintain learning while fostering discipline, courage, and togetherness, with students aiming to read a juz of the Qur’an daily.

Bogor Police Chief and Colleagues Pool Resources to Endow 2,000 Qur'ans for the Community

The Bogor Police distributed a wakaf endowment of 2,000 Qur'ans donated by officers, with the aid of the Indonesian Mosque Council (DMI) to target mosques and pesantren in the Bogor area. The initiative, begun on Ramadan's first day, aims to bolster the community's spiritual life and illustrate a broader role for police in social and cultural development.

Not Only Sharing, UBSI Jatiwaringin Campus Instills Social Character Through Ramadan Nasi Boxes

UBSI Jatiwaringin campus runs a Ramadan nasi box distribution from 23 February to 13 March 2026, as part of a character education programme designed to build empathy and social responsibility among students in the digital era. The initiative, led by Yayasan Bina Sarana Informatika, emphasises that education should foster benefits to the community, not just digital skills, and aligns with UBSI's Excellent Accreditation status and inclusive religious values.

Why Do Kemang and Mampang Always Flood? An Analysis of the Causes and Solutions for 2026

An in-depth analysis of why flood risk in Kemang and Mampang persists beyond heavy rainfall, focusing on topography (The Valley Effect), Kali Krukut bottlenecks, and urbanisation that reduces permeable surfaces. It outlines near-term mitigations such as widening Kali Krukut and deep well injection, and stresses the need for consistent policy and planning to create a water-friendly Jakarta.

ASDP Shares Ramadan Joy with Orphans

ASDP Indonesia Ferry (Persero) organised a Ramadan charity event in collaboration with the Klepean Centre for Humanity, distributing aid packages to about 200 recipients, including 25 orphans. The event emphasised humanitarian values during the holy month and underscored ASDP's commitment to social responsibility and the SDGs, particularly poverty reduction and reducing inequality. The initiative highlighted the company's role in supporting communities and strengthening social ties.

SIG: Talavera Jetty project in Tuban to begin operations this year to bolster exports

PT Semen Indonesia (Persero) Tbk (SIG) says the Talavera Project Jetty in Socorejo, Tuban, East Java, will operate optimally by mid-2026 to bolster exports and strengthen competitiveness. The project, developed with Taiheiyo Cement Corporation via SIG's subsidiary PT Solusi Bangun Indonesia Tbk, will add jetty capacity and install blending and silo facilities to support expanded production for global markets.

Cars Predicted to Be the Most Used Mode for Lebaran 2026 Homecoming

A government survey indicates private cars will be the most used transport mode during Lebaran 2026 mudik, estimated to account for about 25.98% of total population movements. Motorcycles and buses are the next most likely modes, but passenger numbers per mode were not detailed. The trend underscores land transport dominance and poses traffic-management challenges on toll and arterial routes, with total mudik movements projected to dip slightly to around 143.9 million from 146.4 million in 2025.

Alliance Laundry Systems Strengthens Laundromat Ecosystem as Indonesia Becomes a Strategic Market

Alliance Laundry Systems held its Alliance Laundry Systems Gala Awards in Bali on 24 February 2026, gathering over 100 distributors, partners and industry leaders. The company used the event to highlight its regional priorities, reinforce its long-term focus on Indonesia and Southeast Asia, and outline plans to strengthen the self-service laundry ecosystem through close collaboration with partners, while expanding sales, technical support and pre-sales capabilities to meet growing demand in On-Premise Laundry and self-service segments.

78 SPPG in Solo Raya Suspected of Violating BGN's Technical Guidelines

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has identified violations of the technical guidelines in the operation of Satuan Pelayanan Pemenuhan Gizi (SPPG) in the Solo Raya area, with 78 units suspected of non-compliance. Issues include non-compliant facility construction, lack of dedicated rooms for the SPPG Head, Nutrition Supervisors and Financial Supervisors, and a dominant involvement of partners in kitchen management. The agency will use the findings to guide evaluation and capacity‑building to ensure MBG is delivered in line with standards and benefits the community.

DJI Romo Officially Launched in Indonesia, a 2-in-1 Robot Vacuum Using Drone-Derived Technology

DJI has launched its Romo Series in Indonesia, introducing a 2-in-1 robot vacuum that sweeps and mops automatically. The device uses advanced sensors and AI to identify household objects, avoid obstacles, and adjust cleaning in real time, including carpet detection that lifts the mop to prevent wetting carpets. It advertises millimetre- and millisecond-level precision in recognising small objects and cables and offers up to 25,000 Pa suction.

Clongop Road Landslide Again, Gunungkidul–Klaten Access Hampered

Another landslide struck the new Clongop road in Gedangsari, Gunungkidul, blocking part of the Wedi-Gedangsari route and restricting traffic to motorcycles. Officials reported no fatalities and said debris clearance and tree-cutting are underway, with cars diverted via Jelok and Sampang. Heavy rain has heightened the risk of further landslides, and the Gunungkidul–Klaten link via Wedi–Gedangsari remains closed.

Police arrest French national for motorcycle theft at a Badung villa; two suspects remain at large

Police in North Kuta, Badung, Bali, arrested a motorcycle thief identified as UBN at a villa in Umalas after he and two accomplices stole two Honda Scoopy motorcycles; two suspects remain at large. The incident on 30 January 2026 involved a French tourist as victim; the case is being pursued under Article 477 KUHP.

Propagating the Quran for Children, Rumah Bocil Pojok Nusantara Organises Ramadan Festivities

A Tangerang community initiative, Rumah Bocil Pojok Nusantara, is hosting Semarak Ramadan 1447 H with a Quran memorisation competition for Juz 30, an Islami quiz, a colouring contest, charities for orphans and for ride-hailing drivers and couriers, and a Ramadan Bazaar. The event runs from 8 to 14 March 2026 and involves children from preschool to primary school, TPQ students and local residents to foster love of the Quran and character development.

These Rules on Vehicle Lighting Modifications: Don’t Dazzle Other Drivers

The Indonesian government regulates vehicle lighting upgrades to safeguard road safety, with rules on beam direction, colour, and mounting. It cites Government Regulation No. 55 of 2012 (Article 64(2)(g)) and Article 61(2)(e), detailing requirements for headlamps on vehicles other than motorcycles, including height, mounting and illumination distances.

Ramadan at SRMA 1 Aceh Besar: A Month of Togetherness

One hundred students at SRMA 1 Aceh Besar observed Ramadan with a programme of shared sahur, rotating kultum, and communal Tarawih in the school dormitory. The schedule also involved Qur'an recitation and other spiritual activities, reinforcing discipline and camaraderie. The school aims to balance academics with worship and communal life, creating a livelier and more cohesive dormitory environment this Ramadan.

K.H. Noer Ali, the Fighting Lion of Karawang-Bekasi

K.H. Noer Alie (1914-1992), known as the Fighting Lion of Karawang-Bekasi, was recognised as a National Hero of Indonesia in 2006. A religious scholar and wartime leader, he helped defend Indonesia's independence through guerrilla warfare, education, and political service.

Coming Soon! Jakarta Prime Ramadan Bazaar to Be Held at City Hall

Jakarta's Perumda Pasar Jaya, in collaboration with detikcom, will host the Jakarta Prime Ramadan Bazaar 2026 at Jakarta City Hall on 9–10 March, from 10:00 to 17:00 Western Indonesian Time. The two‑day event blends UMKM empowerment with social programmes, including a subsidised staple scheme and charitable donations to orphans, plus live music to entertain visitors. Governor Pramono Anung will attend, underscoring support for a modernising traditional market ecosystem and closer ties with the public, especially the youth.

Video: Securing the Textile–Seafood Industry, Indonesia's Aim to Negotiate Trade with the US

Indonesia and the United States signed the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade on 19 February 2026 as part of efforts to safeguard labour-intensive industries dependent on the US market. Deputy Chair of the National Economic Council, Mari Elka Pangestu, warned that without a negotiated deal Indonesian-origin goods could face a 32% tariff, while a 104% tariff on Indonesian solar panels was noted as a response to demand shifts from China and Vietnam; the piece previews a CNBC Indonesia Squawk Box interview.

Understanding Autophagy: Benefits, How It Works, and How to Trigger It for Cellular Health

Autophagy is the cell's self-cleaning process that recycles damaged components to maintain cellular health, with potential benefits for brain health and ageing. The article explains how fasting, exercise, and ketosis can trigger autophagy, and references Yoshinori Ohsumi’s Nobel Prize–winning work. It also discusses practical fasting patterns and lifestyle factors that may influence autophagy.

11 Health Benefits of Black Pepper That Can Help Reduce Inflammation

Black pepper, derived from the dried berries of Piper nigrum, contains piperine which enhances nutrient absorption and supports digestion. Its antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties may aid heart health, immunity, brain function, and metabolic regulation. Originating in southern India (Kerala), it is now widely cultivated in Vietnam, Indonesia and Brazil.

State to Scrutinise Developers' Land Bank; Idle Land After Two Years at Risk of Seizure

The government will review land held by developers as land banks to ensure it is used per the masterplan. Evaluations may begin two years after land rights are issued, and if land is idle without a clear development plan, the rights holder could face enforcement under idle-land regulations. The move signals tighter oversight of land use and development commitments.